Kenya has introduced a new funding model for university students, aiming to promote equality, efficiency, and transparency in higher education assistance.
Under this model, students who qualified for university placement through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) will be eligible for funding.
However, the level of funding will be determined based on the monthly household income of each student.
In this article, we will delve into the details on How New University Funding Model for Works, its funding model and implementation.
Categorization of Students
To determine the funding allocation, students seeking financial aid from the government have been classified into four categories: vulnerable, extremely needy, needy, and less needy.
The higher education loans board will provide 100% government funding in the form of scholarships and loans to the vulnerable and extremely needy students.
Those categorized as needy and less needy will receive 93% government funding, with students responsible for bearing 7% of the tuition costs.
Criteria for Funding
The new funding model emphasizes accountability and transparency by considering various factors during the application and funding process.
The applicant’s family socioeconomic background, affirmative action for individuals with disabilities, orphans, those from marginalized areas, as well as gender considerations, will be taken into account.
Additionally, the applicant’s household composition and size will be validated by strategic partners to ensure accurate assessment.
Cost Considerations
Apart from household income, the individual cost of the student’s course will also be taken into consideration for funding.
The government aims to clarify the financial responsibilities of students, and further details regarding the 7% tuition cost borne by students will be provided.
Implementation and Timeline
The new funding model will be implemented starting with this year’s first-year university admissions.
The process begins with the opening of the KUCCPS portal, where qualified students will be placed in the country’s universities.
Between July and August, the placed students will have the opportunity to apply for government funding.
The funds will be disbursed in September, coinciding with the commencement of the first year of study.
