Ruto asks universities to allow students with fee arrears to sit exams
By Maureen Kinyanjui |
The President said universities should not deny any student the opportunity to learn and succeed based on their financial background.
President William Ruto has urged all university vice-chancellors to allow students who have not cleared their fees to sit their end-of-semester examinations.
Speaking at the Scott Christian University graduation ceremony in Machakos County on Friday, Ruto appealed for understanding, asking universities to be patient as the government works on fully disbursing scholarship funds.
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This move, according to the President is part of the government's solution to address the challenges universities are facing as they transition from the previous funding model to the new student-centred funding model.
"Therefore, I appeal to universities to allow students to sit their end-of-semester examinations while awaiting the resumption of full disbursement once the government gives direction on the matter," Ruto said.
The President said universities should not deny any student the opportunity to learn and succeed based on their financial background.
"As we navigate the challenges brought about by the student-centred higher education model, I urge universities to exercise patience and understanding with students," he said.
In addition to urging flexibility regarding fee payments, the President also called on university heads to ensure that every student is treated with care, regardless of their financial situation.
He stressed the importance of providing equal opportunities for all learners, ensuring that no student is left behind.
President Ruto also assured Kenyans that the government will do everything in its power to fully implement the recently introduced higher education funding model, aimed at eliminating bias in student funding.
"I am very clear in my mind and have worked with all the vice-chancellors to ensure that we have a model that makes university education accessible and puts a sound financial footing," he stated.
This directive follows the resumption of end-of-semester examinations at several universities across the country after the Universities Academic Staff Unions (UASU) called off a lecturers' strike.
Many students who have not cleared their full fees have reported being prevented from sitting their exams.
In May 2023, President Ruto officially unveiled the new funding model, designed to address challenges faced by universities, including increased enrolment and limited funding.
The model divides students into five distinct income brackets, or bands, with each band receiving a different amount of government support.
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