The Higher Education Loans Board (Helb) has announced that first- and second-year university students will continue receiving funds under the previous funding model as the agency awaits the outcome of an appeal challenging the High Court’s suspension of the new framework.
The announcement comes amid growing student protests, with demonstrators demanding the immediate release of their loans. On Monday, learners from Egerton University and the University of Nairobi stormed Helb’s headquarters at Anniversary Towers in Nairobi, decrying the delays.
Police intervened to disperse the protesters and secure the premises, aiming to prevent disruptions within the Central Business District (CBD).
The demonstrations follow a seven-day ultimatum issued by University of Nairobi students on January 14, demanding the government resolve the delays or face mass protests.
Students lamented that the prolonged wait for funds, which they rely on for tuition, accommodation, and daily expenses, had left many struggling financially.
Addressing the media outside Helb offices, Egerton University student leaders issued a 12-hour ultimatum to the agency, warning of heightened action if the funds were not disbursed.
“We urge the government and the Ministry of Education to release Helb funds to comrades. We are giving you an ultimatum of 12 hours to act. We are tired,” said Egerton University student leader Teddy Odhiambo.
“We will shut the country down if Helb does not disburse the loans in 12 hours. We are sleeping hungry, we have not paid fees, we are depressed, and the government is doing nothing. We have rent arrears, we can’t afford meals, and our academic progress is at risk. Helb is our lifeline, and these delays are unacceptable.”
Meanwhile, Kenyatta University students staged demonstrations along the Thika Superhighway, blocking a section of the busy road and causing a major traffic snarl-up. The protest came barely a week after a similar demonstration by the same group.
Helb has attributed the disbursement delays to budgetary constraints, increased demand for financial aid, and challenges in recovering loans from previous beneficiaries.
As a result, the agency confirmed that first- and second-year students will be funded under the differentiated unit cost model, similar to how third- and fourth-year students are supported.
Responding to complaints, Helb Lending Manager King’ori Ndegwa revealed that KSh3.1 billion had already been released, with approximately 180,000 students still awaiting disbursements.
The delays stem from a court ruling that halted the implementation of the new funding model, forcing Helb to temporarily revert to the old system until the legal dispute is resolved.
Helb has assured students that it is working with relevant government agencies to address the situation and expedite the release of funds.
