The University of Hawaii said today it bought 3.2 acres in Kaunakakai from Molokai Ranch to expand the UH Maui College Molokai Education Center.

The parcel is next to the UH center in Molokai, which has about 250 students, according to a news release. The center offers certificate and associate degrees in seven majors.

“This purchase will eventually expand the college’s Molokai Education Center and strengthen our capacity to provide more higher education and economic opportunities,” said UH Maui College Chancellor Clyde Sakamoto.

“We couldn’t be more pleased to play a role in their expansion through this sale,” said Clay Rumbaoa, CEO of Molokai Ranch.