The Ministry of Education has announced the formation of two new working committees to address student concerns over Kenya’s higher education funding model.
The committees, which will include representatives from student leadership, experts, and other key stakeholders, are tasked with evaluating the model’s implementation and recommending improvements.
The decision comes amid rising tension among university students, who have been planning demonstrations for September 9, 2024, to demand greater involvement in decisions affecting their education.
In a press statement, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba stated, “To ensure meaningful student participation and address their concerns, the Ministry is engaging them directly through these committees. We encourage the student leadership to call off the planned demonstrations to focus on this constructive dialogue.”
The new committees will have specific terms of reference, which include assessing the effectiveness of the means-testing instrument used to categorize students for funding, evaluating the appeal mechanisms for students challenging their categorization, analyzing university program costs, and reviewing the structure of student loans, including interest rates and repayment periods.
Launched in May 2023, the New Funding Model for Higher Education aimed to prioritize student-centered funding and equity. However, it has faced criticism from students and other stakeholders, who argue that it does not adequately reflect their socio-economic realities. The Ministry has acknowledged these concerns, holding multiple forums since the model’s introduction to gather feedback and implement improvements.
One key outcome of these forums has been a call for greater integration of students in the decision-making process. “The students’ voices are crucial in shaping policies that impact their future,” Ogamba added. “We are committed to refining the funding model to better serve all parties involved.”
The Ministry emphasized that the committees will be time-bound and transparent, with their findings and recommendations expected to be made public. The specific terms of reference for the committees will be released within the week after consultation with student representatives.
