MP Njeri Maina raises concern over delayed HELB funds disbursement

Speaking in the National Assembly, Njeri called on the Departmental Committee on Education to provide clarity on the ongoing funding crisis, which has left thousands of students stranded financially.

The delay follows a ruling by the High Court on December 20, 2024, which declared the new higher education funding model unconstitutional. The ruling barred the implementation of the model until the government ensures compliance with constitutional and legal requirements. 

In response, the Ministry of Education pledged to introduce a revised tertiary education funding model, expected to be rolled out later this year. Meanwhile, the government had committed to reverting to the previous HELB funding framework.

However, despite these assurances, students across the country have yet to receive their HELB loans in a timely manner. Many students have been unable to pay tuition fees, leading to their exclusion from examinations. 

The financial distress has triggered unrest in several universities, with students staging protests and, in some instances, lecturers boycotting examinations in solidarity with affected learners.

In her request, Nieri Maina has sought specific details from the Departmental Committee on Education, including;the total amount of funds disbursed by the National Treasury under the HELB model, along with specific dates of disbursement.

She also wants the committee to disclose the total number of students who have benefitted from the funds since November 2024 as well as the measures put in place to ensure timely disbursement of funds and prevent further disruptions in learning.

Maina emphasized that the current situation contravenes Article 43(1) of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to education for all Kenyans. She urged the government to act swiftly to resolve the crisis and ensure that students can continue their studies without financial hindrances.

The Departmental Committee on Education is expected to shed light on the matter next week on Tuesday.