The Kenya University Students Association (KUSA) has issued a fresh appeal to President William Ruto, calling for an urgent audience to address what they describe as deepening frustrations within the higher education sector.
Led by KUSA chairman Evans Kiprono Korir—who also serves as the Mt. Kenya University Students Council President—the association says critical concerns raised by students across the country remain unresolved despite repeated petitions to government agencies.
Korir said students have been engaging officials responsible for education and funding, but their appeals have gone unanswered, leaving thousands uncertain about their academic future.
Central to their concerns is the new university funding model, which introduced a system combining government grants, Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) loans, and scholarships.
While students initially welcomed the model and submitted detailed recommendations to improve its implementation, Korir says these suggestions have not been incorporated.
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According to KUSA, the funding framework has created disparities in student support and left many learners without adequate financing to cover tuition and upkeep.
“We have students who have not been classified correctly, others who received partial funding, and many who still cannot access loans or scholarships,” Korir stated. “This is why we need the President’s direct intervention.”
The association also raised concerns about the remuneration and welfare of university lecturers. Though lecturers’ unions have reached agreements with the government, Korir noted that institutions are still struggling to meet the required salary and staffing standards. Students fear ongoing labour disputes may disrupt learning if lasting solutions are not implemented.
In addition, KUSA wants clarity on how the new education system in higher education will align with university programmes.
Korir said the government must streamline the pathway to ensure learners entering universities face no delays or mismatches in course placement.
Another pressing concern is the delayed issuance of Teachers Service Commission (TSC) numbers to education graduates. Many students who completed their training have waited months without being registered, slowing their entry into the job market.
KUSA now insists that only a direct meeting with President Ruto and education officials will offer the assurances students need.
“We believe the President understands our struggles. We just need him to listen,” Korir said.
By Philip Koech
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