Kenya is set to change how it funds higher education, moving from scholarships to a loan-based system for students in public universities and TVET institutions. The government has proposed a new bill that would replace current scholarship programs with a fully funded system where students receive financial support from the state but must repay it later. This shift aims to increase access to education while managing public spending more effectively.
Under the Tertiary Education Placement and Funding Bill, every student who gains admission to a public university or TVET institution would be fully funded by the government. However, the funding would come in the form of loans that students would need to repay after graduation. The policy is part of broader efforts to improve the quality and accessibility of tertiary education in the country.
The move has sparked discussions among educators and policymakers about the long-term impact on students and the economy. Some argue that loans could lead to increased debt, while others believe it will encourage more students to pursue higher education. The bill is expected to be debated in the coming months before it is finalized. (peopledaily.digital)
