Ministry of Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Julius Ogamba has said that a total of 124,364 students, out of the 138,535 placed in institutions of higher learning countrywide, have reported to their respective universities as of September 18, 2024.
The CS, who appeared before Parliament on Wednesday to answer questions from MPs on progress made on the implementation of the New Higher Education Funding Model, further indicated that 75,000 students (60%) have paid their household contribution.
The Ministry confirmed the implementation of a directive issued by the National Assembly requiring all public universities to admit students irrespective of their ability to immediately pay their household contribution component of fees, assuring the MPs that all students will be accommodated.
In a Kamukunji on August 20, 2024, lawmakers expressed concerns about the university funding model demanding all students to be admitted to their respective universities.
“I wish to indicate that a day after the Kamukunji, we implemented your directive and instructed that all public universities will admit students irrespective of their ability to immediately pay their household contribution component of fees,” CS Ogamba stated.
Universities’ Vice-Chancellors had been directed to facilitate suitable accommodation arrangements for first-year students as well.
During the session, the lawmakers also sought clarification on the application status for public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions under the new model.
Further, the MPs questioned if the cost-benefit analysis was done on the new model, stressing that education should be free for all.
MP Catherine Omanyo emphasized the need for fair and equitable criteria to ensure that the neediest students are not disadvantaged.
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The ‘student-centred funding model’ was introduced in May 2023, with the government maintaining that the model aims to provide funding to students based on their level of need.
It stated that this targeted approach is designed to enhance equity and inclusivity in higher education.
Recently, President William Ruto appointed a 129-member committee to review the funding model after students called for protests.
According to the gazette notice dated September 16, the committee will be made up of four streams, each with its leadership as well as membership.
They include the workstreams on the Review and Refinement of the New Funding Model for Universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Institutions.
By Obegi Malack | obegimalack@gmail.com
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