Written By Lisa Murimi
The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) disbursement has once again become a source of chaos and stress for thousands of students across Kenya.
As the academic year commences, students are frantically scrambling to obtain the much-needed funding to pursue their higher education dreams, and the process has proven to be anything but smooth.
Education CS Ezekiel Machogu unveiled the Higher Education Financing Portal, which would provide money to university and TVET students.
“Since the presidential directive on May 3, 2023, on the roll-out of the new funding model, the government has developed and completed the Higher Education Financing portal to receive applications for scholarships, bursaries, and loans for university and TVET students,” the CS said.
“Students from low-income households shall have equal access to university and TVET education.” Over 45,000 university students and 42,000 TVET students designated as vulnerable and highly poor would be completely financed under the Government Scholarships and Loans out of the 2022 KCSE graduates,” he added.
Perennial challenges in the disbursement process have left students anxiously waiting for their funds, with many facing uncertainty about how they will cover their tuition fees, accommodation, and other essential expenses.
The delayed disbursement of funds has become a recurring problem, disrupting students’ plans and impacting their academic pursuits. The lack of timely communication and transparency from HELB has left students and their families frustrated and desperate for answers.
Moreover, the high demand for loans has led to increased competition, leaving many deserving students uncertain about whether they will secure the much-needed financial assistance.
As the scramble for funding continues, students hope that the authorities will take necessary steps to streamline the disbursement process, ensuring that every eligible student receives the support they require to pursue their academic dreams without undue stress and uncertainty.
