National Treasury Releases Education Funds Ahead of School Reopening
The National Treasury has disbursed Sh29.7 billion for basic learning and university education in preparation for the reopening of schools on August 26.
This funding is part of the Sh40 billion allocated to various state departments, including Basic Education and Higher Education and Research.
Breakdown of Allocations
The State Department of Basic Education has received Sh21.8 billion, allocated as follows:
- Free Primary Education (Third Term): Sh1.6 billion
- Free Day Secondary Education: Sh14.1 billion
- Junior Secondary Education (Third Term): Sh6.1 billion
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The State Department for Higher Education and Research has been allocated Sh7.9 billion. This includes:
- Education Loans Board for Students: Sh5.1 billion
- Universities Fund Board: Sh2.8 billion
Extension of University Funding Application Deadline
The Ministry of Education has informed Parliament that the deadline for university students to apply for funding under the new model has been extended to December 31, 2024.
Initially set for August 15, 2024, the deadline was strategically designed to encourage swift applications, based on past experiences where extended periods led to delays. However, recognizing the challenges faced by some students in applying, the deadline was extended.
As of August 15, 104,575 students had applied for funding, with the number rising to 125,893 by August 16, including 8,530 students from the KCSE 2022 cohort.
The total number of applicants has reached 127,623, with 119,093 from the KCSE 2023 cohort. This figure is nearly 5,000 more than the anticipated number of applicants.
New University Funding Model
The Ministry clarified that the new funding model, which provides scholarships and loans based on students’ financial needs, is applicable only to students from the KCSE 2022 and 2023 cohorts (Year One and Year Two students).
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Students from the KCSE 2021 cohort and earlier (Year Three to Year Six students) will continue to receive funding under the Differentiated Unit Cost (DUC) model.
This model provides universities with a capitation grant based on the number of enrolled students, the cost of specific programs, and available government resources.
National Treasury Releases Education Funds Ahead of School Reopening
