Kenya is set to overhaul its tertiary education funding system with the introduction of a new authority. The Tertiary Education Placement and Funding Bill, 2026, proposes replacing multiple existing bodies with a single institution. This change aims to streamline student financing and improve access to higher education. The proposal, sponsored by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, would merge the functions of the Higher Education Loans Board, Universities Fund, and TVET Funding Board.
The new Tertiary Education Funding Authority would centralize the management of student loans and financial support. This move is part of broader efforts to modernize Kenya’s higher education sector. Officials hope the reform will reduce administrative burdens and increase transparency in funding processes. The bill is currently under review and could lead to significant changes in how students access financial aid.
The reform has sparked discussions among educators and policymakers. Some see it as a step toward greater efficiency, while others worry about potential challenges in implementation. The government has not yet announced a timeline for the new system’s launch. As the proposal moves forward, it may reshape the landscape of tertiary education in Kenya.
