The government has begun the process of formulating an improved university funding model following the High Court’s decision that ruled out the previous model introduced in 2023.
Speaking on Tuesday, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba revealed that a proposal containing the changes was in the final stage of completion.
According to the CS, a special committee established by President William Ruto last year had already submitted a preliminary draft containing the proposals with the rest of the changes expected to be completed by the end of this week.
He stated that once approved, the new funding model would come into effect by September when most first years would be joining their various institutions of higher learning.
Ogamba outlined that the proposal included an expansion of the variables of the Means Testing Instrument (MTI) used in determining a learner’s level of need.
The education minister also acknowledged the challenges faced by learners in the previous funding model but assured Kenyans of the government’s commitment to addressing the discrepancies.
In May 2023, President Ruto launched a new university funding model where students were urged to individually apply for the loans and scholarships through a Means Testing Instrument which categorised learners as vulnerable, extremely needy, needly, or less needy.
However, the model was received by negative criticism where students and parents who questioned the government’s criteria for determining a learner’s level of need.
Subsequently, the model led to protests as students criticised the model for lacking transparency.
ALSO READ: Former President Uhuru Breaks Silence, Rebukes Leaders Lamenting Trump’s Funding Cuts