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The Nairobian

Barasa urges state to expedite appeals for varsity funding model

Counties

By Benard Lusigi and Mary Imenza | Sep 10, 2024

**Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa (left0 wants the government to ensure all learners access universities.** [File, Standard]

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has called on the Ministry of Education to fast track appeals for the new university funding model.

“The Ministry of Education must expedite the appeals process to alleviate the burden of affected students and ensure that they report to universities on time and have equal and quality time for studying,” said Barasa.

The governor who was addressing 7,000 first-year students at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) said that the government should ensure that all learners access universities to pursue their careers.

“Our primary goal should be to make higher education accessible to everyone. If the current model fails to do that, we need to reconsider it urgently. We must listen to the students and make necessary adjustments to support their educational aspirations,” he added.

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He however, called on the government to abandon the new university funding model.

“The new funding model has created significant hurdles for many students and we need to take swift action to address these issues and ensure that all eligible students can access the financial support they need,” he said.

Barasa assured that his administration will allocate Sh40 million for university and college scholarships next year.

MMUST Vice Chancellor Solomon Shibairo defended the new funding model saying it will ensure students access quality and affordable education and save universities from the debt crisis.

“MMUST is fully committed to supporting students as they adjust to the new system. We are dedicated to assisting them through this transition period and this model,” he said.
Prof Shibairo said the university will provide the necessary support to ensure that students successfully embark on their academic journey.

Dr Pamela Sitienei, the Chairperson of the University Council at MMUST, said the new funding system is designed to improve access and support for all students and called for dialogue to address concerns.

“The new model is designed to improve access and support for students. It aligns with the government's vision for higher education and we want to encourage our students not to take the protest route but rather the dialogue route to resolve any problems that threaten to affect their education and welfare,” she said.

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