President William Ruto has announced that the government will fully finance higher education for all students who qualify for placement in colleges and universities across the country.
Speaking on Tuesday, July 21, the President said the new funding model is designed to ensure that no eligible student misses out on higher education because of financial constraints.
According to Ruto, every student who successfully completes their national examinations and secures placement in a university or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution will be eligible for government funding, regardless of the institution they join.
President William Ruto. Photo: Courtesy.
The Head of State said the move is intended to make higher education more accessible by removing the financial burden that has prevented many families from enrolling their children in tertiary institutions.
Under the new arrangement, the government will shoulder the cost of higher education, while parents who are financially able and willing to contribute will still have the option to do so.
Ruto noted that the revised model seeks to guarantee equal opportunities for all learners by ensuring access to university and college education is determined by academic merit rather than a family’s financial status.
The announcement comes amid continued debate over the country’s higher education funding model, which has faced criticism from students, parents and education stakeholders since its introduction.
Concerns have centred on affordability, delays in disbursement of funds and the categorisation of students based on household income.
The President expressed confidence that the government’s latest approach would address those concerns by ensuring that every qualified student receives the financial support needed to complete their higher education.
The new funding commitment is expected to benefit thousands of students admitted to universities and TVET institutions each year, with the government positioning the initiative as part of its broader efforts to expand access to education and develop a skilled workforce.
