Sossion Criticizes University Funding Model: Calls for Comprehensive Review
Wilson Sossion, the former Secretary-General of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), has called for an urgent review of Kenya’s new university funding model. Speaking on KTN News, Sossion criticized the model for its lack of inclusivity and its flawed implementation, arguing that it fails to address the needs of all stakeholders involved in higher education.
Sossion highlighted significant issues with the current university funding model, which President William Ruto introduced in May. According to Sossion, the model inadequately includes key stakeholders such as students, lecturers, and the public. He expressed his concerns about the decision-making process, stating, “The Vice Chancellors should not have been left to determine the level of fees in public universities.” Sossion believes that excluding these groups during the development phase led to widespread confusion and dissatisfaction.
He further emphasized that the implementation of the model would have been smoother with more effective leadership. He suggested that the government could have better supported low-income households by utilizing scholarships and the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB). With an annual education budget of Sh84 billion, Sossion argued that the funds should be used to better support vulnerable students, noting, “If implemented correctly, the vulnerable students would be in Band One. However, the current model creates imbalances.”
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The new funding model has faced significant backlash. On Monday, students from the University of Nairobi protested against the scheme, arguing that it unfairly distributes resources and will negatively impact access to higher education. Rocha Madzayo, leader of the University of Nairobi Students Association, voiced strong opposition, stating that the model would “cripple university education.” Madzayo has urged students nationwide to reject the model and called on the Ministry of Education to reconsider the approach.
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In defense of the funding model, President Ruto has claimed that the system focuses on students rather than universities. Despite this, the model has sparked considerable controversy. Over 12,000 students have filed appeals through the Higher Education Financing (HEF) portal, contesting the allocations. The funding model categorizes students into five bands based on their families’ income levels. Band One, for the most financially disadvantaged families, covers 95% of fees through government scholarships and loans, requiring students to pay only 5% of the total fees. Conversely, Band Five, for families with a monthly income exceeding Sh120,000, mandates that they cover 40% of the fees.
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Critics, including various education stakeholders, argue that the new university funding model excludes many needy students and reduces accessibility to higher education for vulnerable groups. As debates continue and student protests persist, the call for a comprehensive review of the model grows louder. In addition, ensuring that the funding model is inclusive and effectively supports all students will be crucial in addressing these concerns and improving the higher education landscape in Kenya.
Sossion Criticizes University Funding Model: Calls for Comprehensive Review.
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