4 Alternatives Government is Considering After Court Ruling on University Funding Model
Editor’s Preview
The New University Funding Model, launched by Ruto’s administration, faced legal challenges following stakeholders’ concerns regarding the distribution of scholarships and student loans.
The government has announced that it is contemplating revamping university fee structures after the High Court annulled the New University Funding Model.
During his appearance before the Senate Standing Committee on Education on Thursday, March 20, Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) CEO Geoffrey Monari elaborated that revamping the fee structures was one of the four options under consideration.
He mentioned that the government was also exploring the possibility of implementing a hybrid funding model through scholarships, HELB loan distributions, and collaborations with the private sector.
He indicated that the government was additionally looking into increasing bursaries and HELB funding to support students.
“The government is also weighing the expansion of Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) financing, enhancing bursary distributions, and modifying university fee structures to achieve a balance between affordability and institutional sustainability,” he remarked.
Conversely, Higher Education PS Beatrice Muganda noted that the government was engaging with various stakeholders to address the legal matters that led to the funding model being deemed unconstitutional.
“The government is actively collaborating with stakeholders, including the judiciary, universities, and financial institutions, to tackle the legal hurdles and bring clarity back to higher education funding,” she mentioned.
The New University Funding Model, introduced by President William Ruto, was contested in court after stakeholders expressed concerns over the distribution of scholarships and student loans.
In his defense, Ruto has advocated for the new model, asserting that it supports students who require greater assistance in covering their tuition fees.