CS Ogamba: 89 Percent of Placed Students Are Now Enrolled in Universities

CS Ogamba: 89 Percent of Placed Students Are Now Enrolled in Universities.

The Ministry of Education announced that, as of September 18, 2024, a total of 124,364 students, out of the 138,535 assigned to higher learning institutions across the country, have reported to their respective universities.

Cabinet Secretary (CS) Julius Ogamba provided this update while addressing Parliament, where he also shared that 75,000 students, representing 60%, have fulfilled their household contribution payment.

The Ministry has confirmed compliance with a National Assembly directive mandating that all public universities admit students, regardless of their immediate ability to pay their household contribution portion of fees.

The CS reassured MPs that all students would be accommodated, even if they have not yet paid.

In response to concerns raised during a Kamukunji session on August 20, 2024, about the university funding model, CS Ogamba informed Parliament that the directive to admit all students was implemented the following day.

He also mentioned that Vice-Chancellors of universities have been instructed to make appropriate arrangements for the accommodation of first-year students.

Parliament Queries on the Funding Model

During the session, MPs sought further clarification regarding the application process for public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions under the new funding framework.

Additionally, they inquired whether a cost-benefit analysis had been performed for the new model.

Many lawmakers stressed that education should be accessible to all, with MP Catherine Omanyo emphasizing the need for a fair and equitable system to ensure the most disadvantaged students are not left behind.

Introduced in May 2023, the “student-centred funding model” aims to allocate financial support to students based on their individual needs.

The government highlighted that this model is designed to promote equity and inclusivity in the higher education system, offering more targeted support for those with greater financial need.

Review of the Funding Model

Following student protests, President William Ruto recently formed a 129-member committee to review the new funding model.

According to a gazette notice published on September 16, 2024, the committee will be divided into four streams, each with designated leadership and members.

Among these are workstreams focused on refining the New Funding Model for Universities and TVET Institutions.

ALSO READ: Survey: Most Primary School Teachers Are Women, But Leadership Roles Highlight Gender Disparity