President William Ruto has taken a significant step towards addressing the concerns surrounding the new university funding model by appointing a 129-member National Committee. This decision, announced via a gazette notice dated September 16, 2024, reflects the administration’s commitment to refining and improving the framework for funding higher education institutions in Kenya.
The newly established National Committee is tasked with reviewing and revising the current university funding model, which has faced criticism from various stakeholders, including parents, students, and educational institutions. The committee’s formation underscores the government’s acknowledgment of the issues raised and its intent to enhance the model to better serve the educational sector.
The committee is divided into four key sub-committees, each focusing on different aspects of the funding model. These include:
- Workstream on the Review and Refinement of the New Funding Model for Universities and Technical, Vocational Education and Training Institutions (TVETs): Chaired by Prof. Karuti Kanyinga and co-chaired by Dibora Zainab Hirbo, this sub-committee will focus on evaluating and refining the current funding structure to ensure it meets the needs of both universities and TVETs.
- Workstream on Appeals Arising from the Categorization of Students into Various Eligibility Bands for the Allocation of Scholarships and Loans: Led by Walubengo Waningilo and co-chaired by Lucy Machugu, this team will address concerns related to the categorization of students and the allocation of financial aid. Their role is crucial in ensuring fairness and transparency in the distribution of scholarships and loans.
- Workstream on the Structure of Student Loans: Chaired by Robert Oduor Otieno and co-chaired by Aron Kiprotich Bett, this sub-committee will review the existing structure of student loans, aiming to improve accessibility and repayment terms for students.
- Workstream on the Review of the Cost of University Academic Programmes: Led by Prof. Mohamed S. Rajab and co-chaired by Patrick Malanga, this group will assess the costs associated with university academic programs and recommend adjustments to make higher education more affordable.
The coordination board of the committee, comprised of the chairpersons and co-chairpersons of the sub-committees, will be overseen by Prof. Japheth Micheni Ntiba. The board will play a crucial role in ensuring the effective operation and integration of the sub-committees’ findings and recommendations.
The National Committee is set to operate for a period of eight weeks, beginning September 16, 2024. During this time, the committee will review the current funding model, consider stakeholder feedback, and propose necessary adjustments. The Secretariat of the Committee, including the Workstreams, will be based at the Ministry of Education Headquarters at Jogoo House.
This review process is a response to growing dissatisfaction with the current funding model, which has been criticized for its complexity and perceived inequities. By appointing such a comprehensive committee, President Ruto aims to address these concerns and ensure that the funding model is both equitable and effective in supporting Kenya’s higher education institutions.
The committee will report directly to the President through the Cabinet Secretary for Education, ensuring that its recommendations are aligned with the government’s educational policies and priorities. This approach not only demonstrates the administration’s commitment to improving the higher education funding system but also provides a structured pathway for implementing necessary reforms.
In conclusion, the appointment of this 129-member National Committee represents a significant move towards enhancing the university funding model in Kenya. The committee’s diverse expertise and comprehensive mandate are expected to bring about meaningful changes that will benefit students, educational institutions, and the broader educational landscape in the country.
