The ongoing funding crisis in public universities has left thousands of students stranded, despite recent assurances from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) that funds had been disbursed. Many beneficiaries are still waiting, unable to cover essential expenses, leading to growing frustration and uncertainty.
Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina has called on the Departmental Committee on Education to urgently address the persistent delays in HELB disbursements. Speaking in the National Assembly on Tuesday, February 18, she pressed for a comprehensive report detailing the exact amount allocated by the National Treasury, the specific disbursement dates, and the total number of students who have received funding since November 2024.
Legal Battles and Student Protests Over HELB Delays
The crisis deepened after a High Court ruling on December 20, 2024, declared the new student funding model unconstitutional and discriminatory. The model, introduced by President William Ruto, aimed to classify students into financial brackets based on their family background, rather than providing uniform loan allocations. The court’s decision halted its implementation, creating confusion among students, especially third- and fourth-year learners who rely heavily on HELB for tuition and upkeep.
In February 2025, mounting frustrations led to widespread student protests over prolonged delays. Under pressure, HELB released funds to first- and second-year students under the old model, pending the government’s appeal against the court ruling. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba assured students that funds had already been factored into the 2024/25 budget and that the government would continue financing universities while addressing legal concerns.
Students Still Struggling as Disbursement Delays Persist
Despite these reassurances, many students remain in limbo. While some have received funds through mobile money transfers, thousands are still waiting as the HELB portal continues to display a ‘Disbursement in Progress’ status. A HELB official confirmed that the government had allocated Sh7 billion for this purpose, yet disbursements remain inconsistent.
With university students facing financial hardship, the Education Ministry must act swiftly to prevent further disruptions. The Departmental Committee on Education is expected to present a detailed report on Tuesday, February 25, providing clarity on HELB’s financial status and outlining measures to prevent future delays.
This ongoing crisis threatens the academic stability of thousands of students, highlighting the urgent need for a more reliable and transparent funding system.
