The Kenyan government has reiterated its dedication to ensuring the university funding system caters equitably to all students and institutions. Speaking on Thursday, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba affirmed the government’s commitment to reforming the higher education funding model to build a stronger, more sustainable sector.
While addressing the National Working Committee on Review of the New University Education Funding Model, Ogamba emphasized the government’s resolve to tackle challenges stemming from the funding system introduced in 2023. Despite its ambitious goals, the model has struggled to meet expectations, prompting the formation of the committee to address the shortcomings.
“The funding model introduced last year has not yielded the expected outcomes, and that is why we are here today,” Ogamba stated. “We decided to be part of the solution and not part of the problem. However, I am fully aware that several issues still need to be discussed and resolved.”
The Education CS reassured stakeholders of the government’s directive to universities to admit all students, ensuring no one is excluded from higher education as reforms take shape. He acknowledged public concerns, particularly those fueled by misinformation, and pledged to work transparently to address them.
Tackling Insolvency and Transparency
Ogamba highlighted the dire financial state of several universities, with approximately 20 to 23 institutions facing insolvency. Specific mention was made of Moi University, whose financial struggles are being handled as a unique case. “We are working on solutions to get these universities back on track,” he said.
Addressing transparency concerns, the CS responded to grievances about the task force’s operations, including communication gaps, irregular meeting schedules, and restricted access to documents. He assured stakeholders of swift action to enhance transparency and fairness.
“We will ensure transparency in our processes. If necessary, we will move the task force to another location to improve efficiency. Furthermore, we are considering implementing a sustainable daily allowance for students,” Ogamba said.
Task Force Extension
To ensure a thorough resolution of all issues, the task force’s duration has been extended. Ogamba announced that an official letter would formalize this extension, allowing adequate time to address systemic problems and devise sustainable solutions.
“We need to consider the genuine appeals that will improve the system. For instance, students mistakenly placed in incorrect financial bands need fair reclassification,” he noted. He also called attention to pressing concerns, such as students who paid for housing but missed part of the academic year due to delays.
Solutions for Striking University Staff
The CS addressed the ongoing University Academic Staff Union (UASU) strike, which has disrupted learning in several institutions. He reassured stakeholders that a resolution is imminent, with active negotiations underway. “We need to agree that the government is not here to oppress anyone; we are here to find solutions. Today or tomorrow, the UASU strike will be called off,” he said.
Inclusive and Equitable Reforms
Ogamba stressed the importance of an inclusive funding model that addresses the needs of all students, not just the underprivileged. The goal, he said, is to minimize errors to less than 2% while making the system robust and inclusive.
The task force comprises diverse stakeholders, including education experts, parents, current and former students, and other interested parties. Their collective feedback will be instrumental in shaping reforms. “We need a broader perspective that ensures all students’ needs are addressed comprehensively,” Ogamba urged.
The government’s actions underscore its determination to reform higher education funding while maintaining inclusivity and transparency. By addressing immediate financial challenges and systemic flaws, the reforms aim to create a sustainable and equitable university funding system for all Kenyans.
