- Additionally, the Vice-Chancellors are required to facilitate suitable accommodation arrangements for first year students.
- Ogamba said this is to be done with the guarantee that the necessary fees will be paid upon disbursement of the upkeep component.
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Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has said no qualified student should be turned back for non-payment of household contributions.
He assured that those qualified for university admission will have a place in their chosen institutions, irrespective of their ability to immediately pay the household contribution.
Ogamba said vice-chancellors of public universities have been directed to admit all qualified students without exception.
Additionally, the Vice-Chancellors are required to facilitate suitable accommodation arrangements for first-year students.
Ogamba said this is to be done with the guarantee that the necessary fees will be paid upon disbursement of the upkeep component.
The CS said the Ministry is working with the National Treasury to expedite the release of the requisite funds.
"These directives reflect the government's unwavering commitment to ensuring that no deserving student is denied the opportunity to pursue higher education due to financial constraints," he said.
Ogamba said students with questions or appeals regarding fees and funding should contact the teams at universities during admission or through the Higher Education Portal at www.hef.co.ke.
He assured that the appeals will be processed within three weeks from the date of application, ensuring timely financial support for students in need.
"The deadline for applications has been extended to December 31, 2024, to accommodate those who may face delay," he said.
He welcomed recommendations from Parliament and other stakeholders on strengthening the New Funding Model and improving the Means Testing Instrument.
For sustainable financing of higher education, Ogamba said they will earnestly work together with all stakeholders to develop a legal and policy framework.
He said the framework consolidates the various bursary and scholarship schemes provided by different entities, such as NG-CDF, County Governments, the Ministry of Education and other public and private players.
"Combining these public resources will enhance equity and affordability in education and also strengthen efficiency by eliminating wastage," he said.
"We remain steadfast in our mission to provide quality education for all and will continue to work towards creating an inclusive, accessible, and equitable education system for every student in the country."