Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has announced that no student qualified for university admission should be denied entry due to non-payment of household contributions. This directive reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that all deserving students have the opportunity to pursue higher education, regardless of their immediate financial situation.
Admissions and Accommodations
According to Ogamba, Vice-Chancellors of public universities have been instructed to admit all qualified students without exception. This includes those who may be unable to pay their household contributions upfront. The directive ensures that students who meet the academic criteria will have a place in their chosen institutions, alleviating concerns about financial barriers preventing access to higher education.
In addition to admissions, Vice-Chancellors are also required to facilitate suitable accommodation arrangements for first-year students. This measure aims to ease the transition for new students by ensuring they have a place to stay while their financial arrangements are finalized. Ogamba emphasized that the necessary fees will be paid upon disbursement of the upkeep component, which is being expedited by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the National Treasury.
Financial Support and Appeals
To address any financial concerns that may arise, Ogamba has outlined a streamlined process for students to seek assistance. Students with questions or appeals regarding fees and funding are encouraged to contact their university’s financial support teams or use the Higher Education Portal at www.hef.co.ke. The CS assured that appeals will be processed within three weeks from the date of application, providing timely financial support for those in need.
Furthermore, the deadline for applications has been extended to December 31, 2024, accommodating students who may face delays in their financial arrangements. This extension is intended to ensure that all qualified students have the opportunity to apply and receive the support they need to pursue their studies.
Strengthening the Funding Model
Ogamba also addressed the need for improvements in the funding model for higher education. He welcomed recommendations from Parliament and other stakeholders on how to strengthen the New Funding Model and enhance the Means Testing Instrument. This feedback is crucial for developing a more robust and equitable funding system that can better support students.
For sustainable financing of higher education, Ogamba emphasized the importance of creating a comprehensive legal and policy framework. This framework will consolidate various bursary and scholarship schemes provided by different entities, including NG-CDF, County Governments, the Ministry of Education, and other public and private players. By combining these resources, the government aims to enhance equity and affordability in education, while also improving efficiency and reducing wastage.
Commitment to Inclusive Education
Ogamba reiterated the government’s dedication to providing quality education for all students. The new directives and policy changes reflect a broader commitment to creating an inclusive, accessible, and equitable education system. By removing financial barriers and streamlining support mechanisms, the government aims to ensure that every student in the country has the opportunity to achieve their educational goals.
In summary, the government’s latest directives are a significant step towards making higher education more accessible to all qualified students. By addressing financial constraints and improving the support system, the Ministry of Education is working to create a more equitable and inclusive educational environment. This proactive approach not only supports students in their academic pursuits but also contributes to the overall development and progress of the nation’s education system.
