Minister Machogu Announces Ksh3.9B Scholarships for First-Year Students
Minister Machogu Announces Ksh3.9B Scholarships for First-Year Students. In a recent announcement, Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu revealed that the Ministry has released the first tranche of KSh3.9 Billion for scholarships under the New Higher Education Funding Model. Targeting specifically first-year students in public universities, the funding allocates to those who successfully applied through the Higher Education Financing portal launched on August 31, 2023. Notably, a total of 115,892 students completed their applications by November 29, 2023.
The disbursement process involves the Universities Fund allocating the KSh3.9 Billion directly to individual universities. Strategically aiming to cover tuition fees and consider the individual needs of successful applicants. Education Minister Machogu expects all universities to receive their respective scholarship portions by December 4, 2023.
With this recent release. The total amount disbursed to first-year students reaches Ksh9.2 Billion under the New Higher Education Funding Model. Aligning seamlessly with the initiative launched by President William Ruto on May 31, 2023. Notably, earlier in the month. The government, through the Higher Education Loans Board, disbursed Ksh5.3 Billion for loans to first-year students.
To ensure fair and equitable distribution, the Ministry of Education employed the Means Testing Instrument (MTI), a reliable scientific method. The MTI plays a crucial role in determining the financial need of students. Emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing adequate support. Importantly, the beneficiaries of this allocation are the first-year students who took the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education Examination in 2022, marking the initial cohort under the new funding model.
In a conclusive statement, the Ministry of Education expressed unwavering commitment from the government to promote access to university education. The main goal is to provide financial support to every deserving student, ensuring none is excluded in their pursuit of higher education.
Minister Machogu Announces Ksh3.9B Scholarships for First-Year Students.