Kenya's government is moving forward with a new legislative proposal that could replace the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) with a single tertiary funding authority. The bill, currently under review, aims to streamline financial support for higher education by creating a unified system that allows parents and guardians to save for their children's tertiary education.
The proposed changes would replace HELB, which has faced criticism for inefficiency and high debt levels among students. Under the new framework, a centralized authority would manage funding, potentially reducing administrative burdens and improving transparency. Parents would also have the option to contribute to savings plans specifically designed for their children's future studies.
The bill has sparked discussions among educators and policymakers about its potential impact on access to higher education. While supporters argue it could make tertiary education more affordable, critics remain cautious about the implementation details. The legislation is expected to be debated in parliament in the coming months.
The reform reflects broader efforts to modernize Kenya's education sector and address financial barriers to higher learning.
