The Principal Secretary for Higher Education, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that no Kenyan student is locked out of university education due to lack of school fees.
Speaking during the 10th graduation ceremony of the University of Embu, Dr. Inyangala said the new student-centered university funding model was designed to support every learner, regardless of their financial background. She noted that already, more than 180,000 students who joined various universities this year have had their fees paid by the Government under the new plan.
“Education is the greatest equalizer .That is why this Government remains steadfast in ensuring that every deserving student has access to the transformative power of higher education. This funding model is not just a technical adjustment; it is a moral commitment to build a nation where potential, not privilege, determines success.” She noted.
The PS further revealed that the Government is diligently preparing for the historic transition of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) cohorts into universities in 2029.
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Inyangala further said that extensive consultations are ongoing with universities, regulatory agencies, and professional bodies to ensure that infrastructure, staffing, curricula, and policies are aligned to provide an environment where learners can thrive and fulfill their potential.
On his part, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Embu, Prof. Daniel Mugendi, announced that a record-breaking 2,055 students had graduated this year the highest in the history of the institution. Among them were 92 diploma and certificate holders, 1,915 bachelor’s degree graduates, 2 postgraduate diploma awardees, 39 master’s degree graduates, and 7 Ph.D. scholars.
“This milestone demonstrates the steady growth of our university,” said Prof. Mugendi. He also revealed that for the 2025/2026 academic year, the university admitted 4,292 first-year students, raising the total student population to 16,406, up from 14,534 last year. According to him, most of the students have expressed gratitude for the new funding model, which has made education more accessible by significantly reducing the financial burden.
Echoing these sentiments, the Chancellor university of Embu , Prof. Musili Wambua, lauded the ongoing reforms in the education sector, describing them as a “game changer.”
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He praised the Government’s proactive approach, led by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba and PS Dr. Inyangala, for addressing student funding, institutional sustainability, and the quality of university programs.
“These reforms have brought about transformative change in how our higher learning institutions operate. We are especially grateful for the government’s steadfast support, which has unlocked opportunities for thousands of students who would otherwise have been left behind.” Prof. Wambua said.
The Embu University graduation ceremony thus stood not only as a celebration of academic achievement but also as a testament to Kenya’s bold steps in reshaping higher education to ensure inclusivity, equity, and sustainability for generations to come.
By Brian Kaleti
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