12,000 Students Appeal for University Funding Model Reclassification

12,000 Students Appeal for University Funding Model Reclassification

Over 12,000 students have requested additional funding from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), citing incorrect placement into funding bands.

The Universities Fund CEO, Geoffrey Monari, confirmed that the organization has taken steps to address this issue. Monari assured that applications for funding and appeals will be ongoing until the end of the year.

As of Thursday evening, more than 127,000 loans and scholarships had been processed, including over 10,000 appeals. This indicates that many students are still eager to ensure their correct categorization. The total number of applications received by Thursday stood at 134,049, with 12,950 appeals lodged.

Monari highlighted that most students who appealed have already enrolled in universities without paying any fees. However, he noted that categorization is based on the information provided by the students.

Some appeals were from students who initially failed to disclose crucial details, such as medical records, that could impact their funding classification.

Ministry of Education’s Directive

Last week, the Ministry of Education instructed universities to admit and accommodate students even if they had not paid any fees. Monari praised the universities for their cooperation, asserting that they have not turned away any student.

To assist new students in the appeal process, the fund has deployed field officers to various universities.

Monari also addressed the issue of students from marginalized areas who had not applied for government funding. He assured that these students would receive help in submitting their applications.

The application and appeal processes will remain open until December 31st, with each appeal expected to be processed within three weeks.

The fund intends to work in partnership with National Government Administrative Officers to authenticate the data submitted by students, guaranteeing complete inclusion.

Recategorization Process

HELB Lending Manager, King’ori Ndegwa, clarified that only students in bands two to five are eligible to appeal for recategorization. He cautioned that students in band one should not appeal unless they are willing to accept reduced funding.

The new university funding system, known as the “student-centered financing model,” is based on students’ financial situations. Previously, all students who met the academic requirements received government funding, regardless of their financial background.

The Higher Education Financing Portal now allows students to apply for grants and loans, categorizing them into one of five funding bands based on financial need.

Students in Band One, the most financially needy, receive government funding that covers 95% of total university costs, split between scholarships (70%) and HELB loans (25%). Band Two students receive 90% coverage, Band Three 80%, Band Four 70%, and Band Five, for students from more affluent families, 60%.

ALSO READ: Ministry of Education Disburses Sh5.2 Billion to HELB for Student Loans and Scholarships

Students have the option of applying solely for government grants or for the HELB loan without a scholarship. The student’s household or guardian must cover any remaining tuition fees and living expenses.

12,000 Students Appeal for University Funding Model Reclassification

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