President William Ruto has assured university students that all pending allocations from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) will be disbursed by the end of this week.
Thousands of students who depend on this financial aid can now expect to receive their funds without further delays.
Speaking during his four-day working tour of Nairobi County, the President addressed students at PC Kinyanjui Technical Training Institute in Dagoretti, where he confirmed that the government had finalized all necessary arrangements to ensure the funds are released by Friday.
Ruto revealed that he had held crucial discussions with Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei. Together, they formulated a structured plan to guarantee that students receive their loans on time.
“As of today, the Head of Public Service is handling the matter, and I have given clear instructions that the money must be in students’ accounts by Friday. Everyone should receive their funds without any further excuses,” Ruto stated.
He also issued a stern warning to those responsible for processing and disbursing the funds, emphasizing that they would be held accountable if the money was not released as scheduled.
“If by Friday the funds have not been reflected in your accounts, feel free to reach out to me directly. There are individuals who will have to answer for the delay,” the President warned.
Government Acknowledges Past HELB Challenges
Ruto admitted that the government had been facing difficulties in processing and releasing HELB funds, which has resulted in financial strain for many students.
“HELB has been experiencing challenges, and I had a meeting with the Cabinet Secretary for Education to resolve the issues affecting the system,” he explained.
The delay in disbursement has previously led to widespread protests by university students who have taken to the streets to demand immediate action from the government.
On February 3, Kenyatta University students blocked a section of Thika Road, causing heavy traffic disruptions as they protested the delayed release of funds. The demonstrators barricaded both sides of the busy highway, making it impassable for motorists.
At the same time, students from the University of Nairobi stormed the HELB headquarters at Anniversary Towers, demanding answers on when their funds would be released.
HELB’s Critical Role in Higher Education Funding
The Higher Education Loans Board plays a crucial role in supporting university and college students across the country. Every year, HELB provides financial assistance to around 180,000 students enrolled in different institutions.
Successful loan applicants receive funding ranging between Ksh 35,000 and Ksh 60,000 per year, helping them cover tuition fees, accommodation, and other expenses. For many students, this financial support is essential for completing their education.
With President Ruto’s latest commitment, students can now look forward to receiving their funds soon, ensuring they continue with their studies without further financial strain.
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