As students prepare to join various colleges and universities in September, the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) has urged the government to review the New Higher Education Funding Model, terming it “punitive” in its current form.
Francis Bundotich, the KNUT Executive Chair for Mogotio/Koibatek branch, raised concerns over the model’s structure and implementation, citing numerous challenges that have affected student placement and transparency.
“There are several problems with this model that need to be addressed if we want it to run smoothly,” Bundotich told Education News. “Proper identification structures are lacking, and this has led to misplacement of students in the wrong bands.”
According to Bundotich, the identification and placement of students based on financial need—an integral part of the new model—has not been effectively managed, resulting in cases where deserving students have not been accurately assessed.
KNUT is now calling on the government to emulate initiatives like Equity Bank’s Wings to Fly program, which, according to Bundotich, conducts “proper and thorough background checks” to ensure that no student is unfairly disadvantaged.
“We need a process that is both transparent and fair. If Wings to Fly can do it, then surely the government can implement a system that protects vulnerable students,” he added.
Parents and students have also voiced their concerns, with many calling for the government to allocate more resources to ensure the model’s success.
READ ALSO:
School watchman arrested over alleged defilement of 4-year-old girl in Bomet
The New Higher Education Funding Model, introduced by President William Ruto on May 3, 2023, replaced the Differentiated Unit Cost (DUC) model. Unlike its predecessor, the new model separates student placement from funding and prioritizes financial need as a key factor in determining support.
Despite its ambitious goal to make higher education more equitable, stakeholders warn that without revisions, the model risks deepening existing inequalities.
KNUT is expected to formally present its proposals for review in the coming weeks.
By Kimutai Langat
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
