Private University Students’ at Risk as State Cuts Funding
A report presented at the National Assembly by Tinderet Member of Parliament Julius Melly has raised concerns about government-sponsored students enrolled in private universities, suggesting that they may face difficulties in obtaining their graduation certificates.
Melly, who also chairs the Education Committee at the National Assembly, expressed his apprehensions during a meeting with the Budget and Appropriations Committee (BAC), led by Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, on Wednesday, February 29.
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In the report, Melly highlighted the impact of the National Government’s substantial reduction in funding for private universities, putting thousands of students in a precarious position.
The report from the National Assembly indicated, “Melly emphasised the plight of continuing government-sponsored students in private universities, warning that unresolved pending bills could jeopardize these students’ receipt of certificates.”
President William Ruto’s administration had terminated the program initiated in 2017, arguing that it had disadvantaged public universities, causing them to accumulate debt. Furthermore, it was disclosed that private universities had not provided an audit detailing how the allocated Ksh8.7 billion for the program had been spent.
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Interestingly, MP Julius Melly, who proposed abolishing the program on March 9, 2023, questioned the government’s decision to place financially challenged students in private universities, citing their high costs. He stated, “If you want to go to a private university, get your money and go there. We do not have a problem with that, but the government will not fund.”
Melly, as the Education Committee chair, now expresses concern that continuing students already in the program are at risk due to the government’s failure to disburse funds.
The situation may worsen with the proposed decision to reduce budget allocations for the Ministry of Education and the Teachers Service Commission. Melly urged Nyoro’s team to reconsider this decision, emphasizing its potential negative impact on educational initiatives and services.
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Private University Students’ at Risk as State Cuts Funding
