President Ruto has told university students that all HELB disbursements will be released by Friday this week. Speaking during his 4-day tour in Nairobi County, the Head of State said students should expect the funds in their accounts by Friday.
Government Action to Speed Up Disbursement
Ruto said he had personally spoken to Education CS Julius Oganga and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei to resolve the delay. He said all talks were done to ensure the money is out.
“I have spoken to the Head of Public Service and the Education CS. Today they are handling the matter and I have told them to send the money by Friday. Every student should have the resources in their accounts,” said President Ruto.
Tough Talk on Accountability
The President warned those in charge of disbursement to be accountable if the money is not released as planned.
“If that money is not in your account by Friday, come to me. There are individuals who will be held responsible for any further delay,” Ruto said.
He acknowledged the hardship students have gone through due to the delays and assured them his government is working to prevent future disruptions.
Student Protests Over HELB Delay
The delays in HELB disbursement have led to wide spread student protests in the country. On February 3, students from KU blocked Thika Road, bringing traffic to a standstill for the frustration over the delayed loans. Meanwhile, students from UoN stormed HELB offices at Anniversary Towers, demanding to know when the money will be released.
Role of HELB in Student Financing
HELB supports about 180,000 students annually in Kenyan universities and colleges. Successful applicants get between Ksh35,000 and Ksh60,000 per year which covers tuition, accommodation and basic expenses.For students from poor backgrounds these funds are a life saver and enable them to stay in school and complete their studies without hardship. However delayed disbursement has caused major disruption, some students are struggling to pay for basic needs or being forced to drop out.
A Test for Government Commitment
President Ruto’s stern instruction is a commitment by the government to fix the education financing system. With thousands of students waiting for their money, the ball is now in the hands of the responsible agencies to see if they deliver on the President’s word.
The outcome of this disbursement will set a precedent for how future HELB funding will be managed. If the money does not reach students by Friday, the government may face more protests and pressure to fix the system permanently.