UoN Calls for Nationwide Demos Over University Funding Model

UoN Calls for Nationwide Demos Over University Funding Model

Amid rising public discontent over the new university funding model, student leaders from the University of Nairobi (UoN) announced nationwide protests to oppose its implementation. During a press conference held on Saturday, the UoN leaders urged students from universities across Kenya to join the demonstrations, which are slated to begin on Monday, September 2.

The student leaders expressed deep frustration with the new funding model, labeling it discriminatory and claiming it restricts access to higher education for many Kenyans. They emphasized that their repeated attempts to engage the government in discussions have been unsuccessful, leaving them with no choice but to resort to national protests.

“Many citizens are suffering because they’ve been incorrectly categorized into higher payment brackets, forcing them to pay exorbitant fees,” one of the UoN leaders explained. He called on students, particularly from UoN, to participate in the protests on September 2.

UoN Calls for Nationwide Demos Over University Funding Model

This announcement comes in response to assurances made by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos, who had previously stated that the government was working to address students’ concerns. On August 23, the Ministry of Education revealed that nearly 10,000 students had lodged appeals against the new funding model through the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal.

Universities Fund Chief Executive Officer Godfrey Monari stated that the appeal review process is already underway, and students will be informed of their appeal status within three weeks of submission. “We have received over 10,000 appeals, and we are working to identify students in need so they can be placed in the appropriate funding bands,” Monari said.

He further assured students that universities would be updated once the appeals are processed, allowing for a reevaluation of household fees. Updates will be made available on the HEF portal, with SMS notifications sent to students.

Monari also noted that the Ministry is considering using National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) to verify the accuracy and authenticity of the information provided in the appeals, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most.