Students across Kenya’s major universities took to the streets on February 3, 2025, protesting delays in disbursement of Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funds. The demonstrations followed a recent court ruling that declared the new university funding model unconstitutional.
At Kenyatta University, hundreds of students blocked Thika Road, causing significant traffic disruptions. Meanwhile, University of Nairobi students stormed HELB offices, demanding immediate action on their delayed loans.
The protests stem from a December 20, 2024 High Court ruling. Justice Chacha Mwita found the new funding model lacked proper public participation, leading to its suspension. This decision has left many students in financial limbo.
Furthermore, first-year and second-year students have been particularly affected by the funding stalemate. Many cannot pay for basic needs such as accommodation and tuition fees.
In response to the mounting pressure, HELB announced a temporary solution. The board will revert to the old funding model for first and second-year students. This arrangement will remain in place while they await the outcome of their court appeal.
“We cannot attend classes without proper accommodation and food,” said one student leader at the University of Nairobi. The sentiment echoes across various institutions where students face similar challenges.
Police had to restrict access to HELB offices during the protests. However, students remained determined to make their voices heard. They demanded swift government intervention to resolve the crisis.
The funding crisis has highlighted deeper issues within Kenya’s higher education sector. Many students rely heavily on HELB loans to pursue their studies. Without these funds, their academic future hangs in the balance.
Senator Richard Onyonka weighed in on the situation. He suggested that Kenya has sufficient resources to provide free university education. This statement has added another dimension to the ongoing debate about higher education funding.
The protests have drawn attention to the urgent need for a sustainable funding solution. Students argue that the delays threaten both their academic progress and financial stability.
Moreover, the situation has created uncertainty in universities across the country. Administrators struggle to maintain normal operations while students lack necessary funds.
Educational experts warn that prolonged funding delays could have long-term consequences. They might affect graduation rates and overall academic performance among affected students.
Despite HELB’s temporary solution, concerns remain about the future of university funding in Kenya. Students continue to advocate for a more reliable and accessible funding system.
The government faces pressure to expedite the appeal process. A quick resolution could help prevent further disruptions to the academic calendar.
Additionally, stakeholders emphasise the need for better communication between HELB and students. Clear timelines for fund disbursement could help reduce anxiety among affected students.
The current crisis also raises questions about the sustainability of Kenya’s higher education funding model. Some suggest the need for comprehensive reforms to prevent similar issues in the future.
As universities grapple with these challenges, students remain vigilant. They have vowed to continue their advocacy until a permanent solution is found.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the direction of higher education funding in Kenya. Both students and administrators hope for swift resolution to ensure academic continuity.
