The National Education Committee at Continental House on June 13, 2024, Members of Parliament (MPs) scrutinized the government’s university placement system and its funds allocation model. The critique comes at a time when the country’s higher education sector is facing significant challenges, particularly concerning equity and accessibility.
Higher Education and Research Principal Secretary, Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, and Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) CEO, Charles Ringera, were present to defend the current systems. However, MPs were unequivocal in their stance that the existing criteria for university selection and funding are inherently flawed and disadvantageous to many students.
MPs raised serious concerns about the transparency and fairness of the university selection process. They argued that the criteria used for placement often leave out deserving students, particularly those from marginalized regions and disadvantaged backgrounds. The current system, they claimed, favors students from well-off families who can afford better preparatory education, thus widening the gap between the privileged and the underprivileged.
“Many bright students from rural areas and low-income families find themselves locked out of opportunities due to a biased selection system,” one MP asserted. “We need a more inclusive approach that gives every student a fair chance, regardless of their socio-economic background.”
The funding model for higher education was another major point of contention. MPs criticized the allocation of funds, arguing that it is both insufficient and inequitably distributed. They pointed out that many universities are struggling to maintain standards due to inadequate funding, which in turn affects the quality of education offered.
“The current funding model does not take into account the unique needs of different universities,” an MP stated. “Institutions in more remote areas face higher operational costs, yet they receive the same level of funding as those in urban centers. This is not sustainable.”
HELB CEO Charles Ringera responded by outlining the board’s efforts to streamline and increase the efficiency of loans disbursement. However, MPs remained skeptical, emphasizing the need for a more robust system that ensures timely and adequate funding for all students.
The session concluded with MPs calling for comprehensive reforms in both university selection criteria and the funding model. They urged Dr. Inyangala and Mr. Ringera to consider new approaches that prioritize equity and inclusivity.
“Education is a fundamental right and a key driver of our country’s development,” one MP concluded. “We must ensure that our higher education system serves all our students fairly and adequately prepares them for the future.”
In response, Dr. Inyangala acknowledged the issues raised and expressed a commitment to work with stakeholders to address the concerns. She assured the committee that the Ministry of Higher Education and Research is already exploring potential reforms to make the university placement and funding systems more equitable and efficient.
As the debate continues, it is clear that the pressure is mounting on the government to implement changes that will create a more just and accessible higher education system for all Kenyan students.
