At least 12,000 students have appealed for additional financial support from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB). These students argue that they were inaccurately placed in funding bands that do not reflect their actual financial needs. The situation has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the newly introduced student-centred financing model, which aims to allocate government resources based on students’ financial circumstances.
Background of the Funding Model
The Kenyan government recently introduced a new university funding system, known as the “student-centred financing model.” Unlike the previous model, where all students who met the academic threshold received government funding regardless of their financial background, the new system categorizes students into one of five bands based on their financial need. These bands determine the level of government support each student receives.
Band One is for the most financially disadvantaged students, who receive government funding covering 95% of their university costs. This support is split between a 70% scholarship and a 25% HELB loan. Students in Band Two receive 90% of their costs covered, with a 60% scholarship and a 30% loan. Band Three students are allocated 80% of their costs, while Band Four students receive 70%. Band Five, reserved for students from more affluent families, covers 60% of university costs.
Appeals for Re-Categorization
Despite the seemingly clear-cut categorization, thousands of students have found themselves in bands that do not accurately reflect their financial situation. Speaking on Friday, Universities Fund CEO Geoffrey Monari revealed that the Fund has processed over 127,000 loan and scholarship awards to date. However, as of Thursday evening, more than 10,000 appeals for re-categorization had been processed, with a total of 12,950 appeals received.
Monari emphasized that the categorization process is based on the information students provide. Unfortunately, some students initially failed to volunteer crucial details, such as medical records or other significant factors that would have influenced their categorization. “We are in the process of evaluating the appeals. Many Kenyans are still keen to ensure they are placed in the correct band,” Monari stated.
Government and University Response
In response to the growing number of appeals, the Ministry of Education directed universities to admit and house students even before they pay any fees. This directive ensures that no student is turned away due to financial constraints. Monari praised the universities for their cooperation and reassured students that field officers have been deployed to assist them in the appeal process.
Monari also highlighted the challenges faced by students from marginalized areas, some of whom had not even applied for government funding. He assured that efforts are being made to assist these students in submitting their applications. The appeal process will remain open until December 31st, 2024, giving students ample time to rectify their categorization.
Challenges and Next Steps
While the introduction of the student-centred financing model marks a positive shift towards equitable resource distribution, the large number of appeals suggests there may be gaps in the initial assessment process. HELB Lending Manager King’ori Ndegwa noted that students in Bands Two to Five are eligible to appeal for re-categorization. However, he warned that students in Band One, who receive the highest level of funding, should not appeal unless they are willing to accept less funding.
As the appeal process continues, the Universities Fund has committed to processing each appeal within three weeks. Additionally, the Fund plans to engage National Government Administrative Officers to verify the information provided by students, ensuring that no one is left behind.
In conclusion, the appeals highlight the importance of accurate and thorough information in the categorization process. The Kenyan government, through the Universities Fund and HELB, must continue to refine this system to ensure that financial aid is distributed fairly and effectively, enabling all students to access higher education without undue hardship.
