President William Ruto has defended his proposal to fully fund all students admitted to universities and colleges, insisting education remains Kenya's most important investment despite growing concerns over the programme's cost.
The President revealed he will meet university leaders to align the implementation of the ambitious plan, even as critics continue questioning how the government intends to finance the sweeping reforms.
If approved, the proposal would overhaul Kenya's higher education funding model and reshape access to tertiary education.
The proposed reforms could transform access to higher education, but questions over affordability and long-term sustainability remain central to the national debate.
Ruto Pushes Ahead With 100% University Funding Plan Despite Financing Questions
Speaking during the Huawei ICT Awards at State House on Tuesday, President Ruto said the government remains committed to ensuring every qualified student receives financial support.
He dismissed criticism over the affordability of the programme, arguing that investing in education is essential to Kenya's economic transformation.
According to the President, developing quality human capital remains the country's greatest priority and cannot be sacrificed because of funding concerns.
He also announced plans to meet university vice chancellors and college leaders to harmonize the implementation of the proposed reforms.
President Defends Education Spending as Investment in Kenya's Future
Ruto maintained that education should be viewed as a long-term national investment rather than an expense.
He argued that equipping young Kenyans with knowledge and skills is critical to achieving the country's development ambitions and moving Kenya toward first-world economic status.
However, the President did not provide details on how the government would finance the expanded funding programme.
His remarks come amid growing public debate over the sustainability of fully funding every eligible university and college student.
TEFA Bill Seeks to Overhaul Higher Education Financing
The proposal is anchored in the Tertiary Placement and Funding Bill, 2026, currently before Parliament.
If enacted, the law will establish the Tertiary Education Funding Authority (TEFA) to replace the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), the Universities Fund and the TVET Fund Board.
The reforms would also scrap the Variable Scholarship and Loan Funding Model introduced in 2023 and replace it with a universal funding system covering all eligible students admitted to public universities, colleges and TVET institutions.
President Ruto has urged Parliament to fast-track the legislation so the new framework can take effect before the September 2026 university intake.
Key Features of the Proposed Funding Plan
| Proposal | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding model | Full government funding for all eligible students |
| New agency | Tertiary Education Funding Authority (TEFA) |
| Institutions covered | Universities, colleges and TVETs |
| Replaces | HELB, Universities Fund and TVET Fund Board |
| Target implementation | September 2026 intake |
While the proposal promises to expand access to higher education, its long-term success will largely depend on Parliament's approval and the government's ability to sustainably finance one of Kenya's most ambitious education reforms.
