President William Ruto has announced a new proposal to fully fund higher education in Kenya, with students receiving government support from September 2026. The plan, outlined in the Tertiary Education, Placement and Funding Bill, 2026, aims to eliminate upfront costs for university and college students. Under the proposal, graduates would repay the funding through deductions from their salaries.
The policy is part of Ruto’s broader strategy to improve access to education and reduce financial barriers for students. By covering tuition fees and other expenses, the government hopes to increase enrollment rates and improve the quality of higher education. However, the repayment mechanism has raised questions about its impact on graduates’ income.
The bill is currently under review and has not yet been passed into law. Supporters argue it will create more opportunities for young Kenyans, while critics worry about the long-term financial implications for graduates. The proposal reflects Ruto’s commitment to transforming Kenya’s education system.
The government has not provided details on how the repayment process will work or the expected timeline for implementation. As the bill moves forward, it will face scrutiny from lawmakers and the public.
