Flaws in University Funding Model Under Review, Says CS Ogamba
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has restated the government’s dedication to addressing the issues plaguing Kenya’s higher education system.
During a meeting with the National Working Committee on the Review of the New University Education Funding Model, the CS acknowledged that the funding framework, introduced in 2023, has encountered significant hurdles in its implementation.
The Cabinet Secretary emphasized that the new funding approach has not achieved the desired results, which necessitates urgent interventions.
He underscored the government’s proactive stance in tackling these issues rather than contributing to the problems. Ogamba noted that while some matters have been resolved, numerous challenges remain under review.
Ogamba reaffirmed the directive for universities to admit all students, aiming to guarantee access to education while addressing the system’s teething problems.
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He assured Vice-Chancellors that the government is committed to resolving the structural issues impacting the model’s performance.
Financial Troubles in Universities
The CS highlighted the dire financial state of numerous universities, revealing that 20 to 23 institutions in Kenya are currently insolvent.
He assured stakeholders that solutions are being crafted to restore financial stability, with a special focus on Moi University, whose case he described as unique and requiring tailored interventions.
The task force, comprising education stakeholders, parents, students, and other interested groups, has been working to address the sector’s challenges.
The CS emphasized the importance of constructive feedback, urging the task force to examine pressing issues, including cases of misplaced student banding and academic disruptions.
Ogamba encouraged a holistic perspective, emphasizing the need to address the concerns of all students, not just those from less privileged backgrounds.
He called attention to grievances such as housing payments and the academic delays experienced by students due to inefficiencies in the system.
Resolution of University Academic Staff Strike
Addressing the ongoing strike by the University Academic Staff Union (UASU), the CS assured stakeholders that a resolution was imminent.
He reiterated that the government’s goal is to foster collaborative solutions, stating that the strike would end shortly. Ogamba expressed a desire to develop a funding model with minimal errors, targeting an accuracy rate of over 98%.
The Cabinet Secretary pledged to address concerns raised by students regarding poor communication, irregular scheduling, and limited access to essential documents.
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He assured stakeholders that steps would be taken to improve transparency and efficiency, including relocating the task force if necessary and considering sustainable daily allowances for students.
To ensure comprehensive solutions, Ogamba announced that the task force’s duration would be extended. He stated that this extension would allow adequate time to address all concerns and develop long-term, sustainable solutions for the higher education sector.
Flaws in University Funding Model Under Review, Says CS Ogamba
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