Kenyan universities are currently grappling with a severe funding crisis, leaving students in a precarious position.
This stems from a recent court ruling that invalidated the student-centered funding model, a system initially designed to ease financial burdens.
Although the Ministry of Education has reassured students that no one will be sidelined, the start of the new semester has brought anxiety, especially for first- and second-year students unsure about funding for tuition and necessities.
Thousands of students are now facing financial hardships, with many unable to afford basic needs such as food and textbooks. Many students from low-income families depended on predictable financial aid, which, for some, determined whether they could continue their education.
The student-centered funding model aimed to diversify university funding by integrating loans, scholarships, family support, and government aid. While it seemed promising on paper, the implementation was far from successful:
- The funds were often insufficient, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Financial aid intended for education sometimes ended up addressing pressing household needs instead.
Despite its intent, the model failed to meet the actual needs of students, amplifying financial instability instead of resolving it.
Reinstating the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) system is being seen by many as a viable solution.
The HELB system provided predictability, offering qualifying students up to KES 70,000 annually to cover tuition and essential expenses. While it wasn’t without its flaws—such as the inability to meet the growing demand—it served as a critical safety net for numerous students.
As one advocate aptly put it, “The HELB system wasn’t flawless, but it gave every qualifying student a basic level of support. That simple guarantee made it equitable.” In the current scenario, where unpredictability reigns, the return of HELB offers a beacon of hope to students who are desperately seeking financial stability.
The government, through the Ministry of Education, has taken steps to mitigate the crisis:
- Appealing the court decision that annulled student-centered funding.
- Instructing universities to ensure that ongoing studies are uninterrupted, even amidst funding shortfalls.
Despite these interventions, many view the solutions as temporary fixes rather than addressing deeper systemic issues. Critics continue to call for a sustainable long-term funding model that ensures both student welfare and university stability.
Beyond the financial impact, this crisis highlights the importance of a stable higher education system for Kenya’s future. Students face an uncertain academic journey, highlighting the need for a funding system that ensures access and equity without putting students in financial jeopardy.
While the calls for HELB’s return grow louder, some stakeholders argue that Kenya must look beyond stopgap measures and develop a comprehensive plan to secure higher education funding sustainably.
The Ministry of Education now carries the weight of finding a solution that will keep students in school while addressing the underlying issues in university funding. The outcome will not only influence current students but also shape the future of Kenya’s education system.
