Government to Fully Sponsor University and College Students Under New Plan, Ruto Says

President William Samoei Ruto

President William Ruto has unveiled a new plan that could see all students admitted to universities and colleges receive full financial support from the government, ending the current funding model based on household income.

Speaking at State House in Nairobi on Tuesday, July 21, the President said every learner who qualifies for placement in a university or college will have their higher education funded by the State once the proposed changes become law.

Ruto said the government intends to guarantee access to higher education for every student who earns admission through the national placement process.

He explained that parents will no longer be required to make mandatory contributions, although those willing to support their children's education will still be free to do so.

According to the President, the policy seeks to ensure that financial hardship does not prevent students from pursuing their academic goals.

New Funding System Awaits Parliamentary Approval

The proposed changes will take effect after Parliament passes the required legislation. If approved, the new model is expected to begin with students joining universities and colleges in September 2026.

The announcement marks a departure from the current funding structure, where students receive varying levels of scholarships and loans depending on their assessed financial needs. 

Ruto urged lawmakers to amend the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) law to allow the government to roll out the new funding arrangement without delay.

He maintained that investing in education is essential for the country's future and said every qualified student deserves an equal opportunity to study without worrying about tuition costs.

Policy Aims to Remove Financial Barriers

The President noted that some students currently abandon their preferred courses because they cannot raise the required household contribution under the existing model.

He said the proposed reforms are intended to eliminate that challenge and ensure that admission to higher education depends on academic performance rather than a family's financial situation.