Kenya’s Education Ministry is under fire as students protest fee hikes and delayed financial aid. The government’s controversial funding model, which categorizes students based on income, has sparked outrage and disrupted learning.
After a court declared the model illegal, financial aid for over 200,000 students halted. Universities withheld scholarships and loans, forcing many to drop out or defer studies. The crisis deepened as the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) failed to disburse funds on time, leaving students stranded without tuition, food, or accommodation.
Protests erupted at major universities, including the University of Nairobi and Moi University. Students argued that the system misclassified them, making education unaffordable. Many were locked out of exams due to unpaid fees, worsening the situation.
Lawmakers and education stakeholders urged immediate action. Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina demanded transparency, calling for urgent solutions to prevent further disruptions. Meanwhile, university administrators warned that institutions face financial collapse if funds remain withheld.
The government initially promoted the funding model as a way to expand access. However, it creates more inequality and burdens students with excessive debt. Previously, universities received block funding, allowing them to manage costs. The shift to individual categorization triggered widespread discontent.
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