Amid widespread confusion, the uptake of the government's new university funding model has stalled, with only 57.5 per cent of eligible students applying for scholarships.
Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura revealed that out of the 153,275 students placed by the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS), only 79,038 applications for funding had been received by August 4, 2024.
"The Government is aware of the fears expressed by some Kenyans about the affordability of the fees apportioned to households and confirms that no child shall drop out of school or college because of fees," stated Mwaura.
"Beginning on the 19th of this month, universities will inform students of the exact payable fees based on their household financial ability as ascertained through the Means Testing Instruments."
The new funding model categorises students into five bands based on household income, with the government providing varying levels of support. For the lowest income bracket, households earning below Ksh5,995 per month, 95 per cent of the funding is provided by the government, with 70 per cent as scholarships, 25 per cent as loans, and 5 per cent as household contributions.
The highest bracket, for households earning over Ksh120,000 per month, receives 60 per cent government support, split equally between scholarships and loans, with the remaining 40 per cent coming from household contributions.
Students have until August 15, 2024, to apply for funding, following an extension from the initial deadline of July 31, 2024. Mwaura urged students to take advantage of the extended deadline, emphasising that applications can be made without an Identity Card.
"Applicants aged below 18 can use their KCSE Index number and birth certificate, while those over 18 without an ID can use their waiting cards."
The government's adjustment to the new model was prompted by the observation that 20 per cent of students did not apply for scholarships last year, as they could cover the fees themselves. These savings have been redirected to benefit students in tertiary institutions, particularly in Technical, Vocational, Education, and Training (TVET) institutions.
Critics of the new funding model have voiced concerns over its complexity and transparency.
President William Ruto has been a vocal advocate for the new funding model, aiming to make higher education more accessible and affordable. However, the rollout has been marred by confusion and criticism, with many questioning the practicality and fairness of the new system.
