High court suspends new university funding model

President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi. [PCS]

The High Court has issued interim orders suspending the implementation of President William Ruto's new higher education funding model.

Justice Chacha Mwita granted the orders following a petition filed by the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), Elimu Bora Working Group, and two others.

The court has barred the Education Cabinet Secretary and associated officials from implementing the model until the case is heard.

"Conservatory orders are issued against the respondents, their servants, agents, and employees from implementing the new education funding model until hearing and determination of the Petition," Justice Mwita ruled.

The case will be heard on December 16, 2024.

Just two weeks ago, Ruto appointed a 129-member team to review the new funding model that has faced opposition from the public.

In a gazette notice, the president stated the team would be divided into four sub-committees, tasked with different roles including the review of the new funding model for universities and Technical, Vocational Education and Training Institutions (TVETs).