The Government has committed to a new funding model for local universities, having doubled allocations in recent years. Despite a legal injunction against its implementation, officials remain optimistic about improvements in access to higher education. The funding model emphasizes student needs, categorizing students based on financial capability. Stakeholders are called to collaborate on sustainable financing solutions meant to address the challenges faced by universities.
The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing support to local universities through a new funding model called the Differentiated Unit Cost (DUC). Over the past two years, university funding has doubled, exceeding Sh82 billion, according to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba. This student-centered funding approach aims to guarantee that no deserving student is denied access to higher education.
Despite the suspension of the funding model pending a court case, the Government remains hopeful for a favorable verdict that will resolve underlying issues in the education sector, including rising debts. A recent petition, filed by multiple organizations, raised concerns about the model’s constitutionality, claiming it improperly shifts financial burdens to struggling families and discriminates against students based on income.
Justice Chacha Mwita has halted the implementation of the model, stating it lacks a legal basis and clarity in its procedures. CS Ogamba emphasized the necessity of Sh45.85 billion to fund the education of over 246,000 secondary school graduates set to enter tertiary institutions. He highlighted this year’s largest number of students qualifying for university through a C+ grade or above.
At the second Biennial Conference on financing of universities, Ogamba stressed collaboration among stakeholders to navigate new funding challenges. He pointed out that more than Sh100 billion is needed for these students over their four-year education. The Ministry is in discussions to open the placement service portal for the new educational cohort, assuring stakeholders of plans for their admission and support.
The Chief Executive Officer of the University Fund, Geoffrey Monari, expressed concerns over the potential negative impact of the funding model’s suspension on public debt. He stated that the implementation of the new model is crucial for alleviating financial pressures on universities and for fostering their revenue generation capabilities.
The new funding structure, launched in May 2023, replaced the previous system with a focus on scholarships and loans tailored to students’ financial needs. Students are categorized into five bands based on income, with those in the lowest band receiving a 70 percent government scholarship. The model aims to ensure equitable distribution of financial aid through a Means Testing Instrument, which assesses various factors affecting student needs.
In the 2022/23 academic year, approximately 563,000 students were enrolled across 32 universities in Kenya, reflecting a slight increase from previous years. Public universities, which heavily depend on government funding, are encouraged to explore alternative revenue generation strategies to ensure financial sustainability.
The Government is keen on improving funding for universities through a newly established model that emphasizes equitable access to education. Despite legal challenges hampering its implementation, the Ministry is committed to ensuring that all eligible students are supported in their higher education pursuits. Collaborative efforts among education stakeholders are essential to navigate the funding landscape and foster sustainable financing for institutions.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
