Funding Model Under Scrutiny as Universities See Spike in Appeals

Funding Model Under Scrutiny as Universities See Spike in Appeals

Over 26,000 students have submitted appeals challenging the newly introduced university funding model, seeking reassessment of their financial classifications.

Families and these students are advocating for reclassification into funding bands that more accurately reflect their financial situation.

The Universities Fund has assured students of support throughout the appeal process, urging them to continue attending classes while their cases are under review.

The funding model is also under legal scrutiny, as activists have filed a lawsuit aiming to halt the implementation of the means-testing instrument.

Critics argue that the instrument is discriminatory and unfairly disadvantages students from lower-income backgrounds.

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The model, now in its second year, has faced significant resistance from civil society groups, student leaders, and political figures, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka. Musyoka, along with his supporters, has threatened to organize nationwide protests to oppose the model.

Defense of the Model

Geoffrey Monari, the CEO of the Universities Fund, has defended the model, explaining that it was based on recommendations from a presidential working group.

He stated that the working party had conducted a nationwide survey before implementing the model, which revealed that universities were not operating optimally. This feedback guided the design of the new model, which aimed to improve student support.

Monari reported that the fund has already reviewed nearly 1,000 appeals from students in financial need, resulting in adjustments to their funding bands.

He also mentioned that the fund plans to use data from the National Educational Management Information System (NEMIS), collaborate with the Kenya Revenue Authority, work with the national government and the Ministry of Interior to verify the claims of appealing students, and conduct background checks.

Continuous Appeal Process

The appeal process, Monari noted, is ongoing, with the national government invited to assist in verifying the financial information of students and their families. Students will complete a form and provide the necessary feedback for reassessment.

President William Ruto defended the new model during a recent town hall meeting with university students and stakeholders, emphasizing its design to ensure equitable and adequate support for all students based on their financial needs.

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Acknowledging the challenges faced by students, the Universities Fund has extended the appeal deadline to December and remains open to constructive feedback from all stakeholders.

Funding Model Under Scrutiny as Universities See Spike in Appeals

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