President William Ruto has expressed optimism that public universities in Kenya will achieve financial stability within the next three years, largely due to the introduction of a new student-centred funding model. Speaking at the 59th graduation ceremony of Scott Christian University in Machakos Town, Machakos County, the President emphasized the importance of addressing the financial challenges that had nearly brought these institutions to their knees. The new model, he noted, aims to transform the sector by ensuring that universities can settle their outstanding debts and operate efficiently without crippling financial burdens.
The President’s remarks highlighted the critical need for change in the funding model used for public universities. For years, these institutions faced significant financial difficulties, with many accumulating substantial debts. As of 2022, public universities had debts exceeding Sh120 billion, and 23 out of 40 universities were at risk of closure due to financial strain. This dire situation prompted the government to overhaul the funding system to provide a more sustainable model that aligns with the changing educational landscape and the needs of students.
The new student-centred funding model, as outlined by President Ruto, seeks to address these financial challenges directly by focusing on the individual needs of students rather than relying solely on traditional allocations. This model has allowed the government to provide Sh41 billion in student loans and scholarships in just one year. The intention is to ensure that every student, regardless of their socio-economic background, has access to higher education. The President stressed that this model would not only alleviate the financial burden on universities but also empower more students to pursue higher education without the fear of overwhelming debt.
President Ruto’s address also touched on the need for urgent intervention to clear the debts accumulated under the old model. He revealed that Scott Christian University, like many others, was heavily affected by these debts, with the government owing it Sh460 million under the old model. The resultant financial strain had forced the temporary closure of the institution, underscoring the urgent need for change. To address these challenges, the President assured that the government was committed to paying off the huge debts owed to public universities, thereby ensuring their survival and stability in the future.
The President’s focus on financial stability was not limited to public universities alone. He also highlighted the eligibility of private university students to apply for funding under the new model through the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB). This inclusive approach ensures that all eligible students, regardless of whether they are in public or private institutions, have the opportunity to access financial support for their education. This initiative is expected to level the playing field and make higher education more accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.
During the graduation ceremony, President Ruto made several key announcements to further support Scott Christian University’s development. The government will invest in infrastructural development by tarmacking all roads within the university premises, equipping their ICT hub with 100 computers, and installing a power backup system and generator. These initiatives are aimed at ensuring that learning activities are not disrupted by blackouts and that students have access to modern resources for their studies. This support is a clear indication of the government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of education and infrastructure at public universities.
In conclusion, the President’s announcement marks a significant shift in how public universities in Kenya are funded and managed. The introduction of a student-centred funding model represents a move towards a more equitable and sustainable approach to education financing. By addressing the financial challenges that have plagued these institutions for years, the government hopes to pave the way for a brighter, more financially stable future for public universities. As the President pointed out, with the implementation of this model, it is hoped that within the next three years, these institutions will be on a path to clearing their debts and becoming more resilient and self-sustaining.
This bold initiative by President Ruto is seen as a pivotal step towards ensuring that public universities can continue to provide quality education to students across the country without compromising financial stability. As the government works tirelessly to implement this model and address the historical debt burden, stakeholders in the education sector will be watching closely to see its impact on the sector’s overall health and sustainability.
