CS Ogamba Unveils Changes to University Funding Model & Roll Out Date.
The government has initiated the development of a revised university funding model following a High Court ruling that nullified the model introduced in 2023. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba disclosed on January 28 that a proposal outlining the changes was nearing completion.
CS Ogamba reported that a special committee established by President William Ruto last year had submitted an initial draft containing proposed changes, with the remaining adjustments expected to be finalized by the end of the week.
Once approved, the updated funding model is set to take effect in September, coinciding with the enrollment of most first-year students into higher education institutions.
The new proposal includes an expansion of the Means Testing Instrument (MTI), a tool used to evaluate a student’s financial need.
Ogamba acknowledged the shortcomings of the previous model and assured the public of the government’s dedication to addressing discrepancies to ensure a fairer allocation of resources.
Background of the 2023 Funding Model
In May 2023, President Ruto introduced a university funding model aimed at providing financial support to students in universities and vocational training institutions.
The model required students to apply for loans and scholarships individually through the MTI, which categorized learners as vulnerable, extremely needy, needy, or less needy.
The funding model quickly drew criticism from students and parents over the criteria for assessing financial need, leading to widespread protests.
Critics argued that the system lacked transparency and fairness. This dissatisfaction culminated in a High Court ruling on December 20, where Justice Chacha Mwita declared the model unconstitutional. The court found it discriminatory and contrary to students’ right to education.
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Justice Mwita emphasized the government’s obligation to fund public universities and faulted the administration for inadequate public participation in drafting the policy.
The ruling stemmed from a petition filed by the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), which highlighted the model’s lack of transparency and discriminatory nature.
Amid the uncertainty surrounding the funding model’s future, some university students have yet to report for their second semester, with many awaiting their capitation. This situation underscores the urgency of implementing a more effective funding system to ensure continuity in higher education.
CS Ogamba Unveils Changes to University Funding Model & Roll Out Date.
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