The government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all students who qualify for university admission will be enrolled in their chosen institutions, regardless of their ability to immediately pay the required household contribution.
This assurance was delivered by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba on Wednesday, as he addressed concerns about access to higher education for students facing financial difficulties.
“No qualified student should be turned away due to non-payment,” Ogamba emphasized, directing public university vice-chancellors to admit all eligible students without exception. He underscored that financial constraints should not hinder any deserving student from pursuing their academic goals.
In addition to ensuring admission, Ogamba instructed vice-chancellors to make suitable accommodation arrangements for first-year students. He clarified that fees could be paid once the upkeep component is disbursed, alleviating the immediate financial pressure on students and their families.
“These directives reflect the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that no deserving student is denied the opportunity to pursue higher education due to financial constraints,” Ogamba stated.
He highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the Ministry of Education and the National Treasury to expedite the release of necessary funds to support this initiative.
To address concerns related to fees and funding, Ogamba advised students to contact university teams during admission or to seek assistance through the Higher Education Portal at www.hef.co.ke. He assured that appeals regarding financial aid would be processed within three weeks of application, ensuring timely support for those in need.
To further accommodate students who may face delays, the application deadline has been extended to December 31, 2024. This extension provides additional time for students to secure the necessary funding and complete their admission processes.
