The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has released Sh9.46 billion in student loans, marking a significant boost for 309,178 university students across the country. The funds, disbursed on Tuesday, August 19, cover tuition fees and upkeep allowances for the current academic cycle.
According to Education Cabinet Secretary Jullus Migos Ogamba, Sh5.76 billion has been allocated to tuition, while Sh3.7 billion will cater for student upkeep. Parents and guardians have welcomed the move, citing the relief it provides amid rising financial strain.
“This disbursement is timely and demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting higher education. Families struggling to meet education costs now have some breathing space,” said Ogamba.
Students have been urged to check their individual accounts through the HELB portal to confirm the status of their loans. For many, this lifeline ensures continuity in their academic journey without the constant fear of being locked out of classes due to unpaid fees.
In the past, HELB has faced criticism for delays in releasing funds, which often left students stranded and universities grappling with financial gaps. Tuesday’s announcement is therefore expected to stabilize learning institutions by ensuring tuition is paid promptly.
Stakeholders argue that timely disbursements are crucial in safeguarding education quality. “Higher education cannot thrive without consistent financing,” one university administrator noted.
The government has pledged to sustain and expand such interventions as the number of students entering higher education continues to grow. With households under economic pressure, Ogamba emphasized that no learner should miss out on university education due to lack of funds.
By prioritizing both tuition payments and upkeep allowances, the ministry has signaled its focus on reducing financial barriers while guaranteeing learning continuity.
