Kenyan Government Amplifies Commitment to University Funding through DUC Model

The Kenyan Government has increased university funding through the Differentiated Unit Cost model, committing over Sh82 billion to enhance student access. Although its implementation is currently suspended due to court appeals, officials are optimistic about resolving disputes surrounding its legality. Education Secretary Ogamba highlighted the financial requirements for accommodating the growing number of eligible students and emphasized the need for collaboration and innovative funding strategies to enhance university financing.

The Government of Kenya has significantly increased its investment in local universities, allocating over Sh82 billion through the Differentiated Unit Cost (DUC) funding model, as stated by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba. This model aims to prioritize student-centered funding, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to higher education for any needy student.

Although the implementation of this new funding model has been paused due to a court appeal, the Government remains optimistic about resolving the issues surrounding education funding. The Kenya Human Rights Commission and other advocacy groups filed petitions, arguing that the funding model is unconstitutional and discriminates against financially disadvantaged students.

The court has temporarily halted the model’s implementation, citing concerns over its legality and proper guidelines. However, the Government is appealing the decision, citing violations of students’ rights and insufficient public engagement in the model’s development. “The model, as it stands, is not anchored in any law. Its composition and its procedure remain unknown,” explained Judge Chacha Mwita.

Education Secretary Ogamba highlighted the need for Sh45.85 billion to support 246,391 students who qualified for tertiary education this year. He emphasized the importance of securing funding to ensure that no deserving student is left without access to higher education. The Minister also noted an astonishing surge in qualified candidates, a reflection of the rising educational standards.

During the second Biennial Conference on financing universities in Naivasha, Ogamba addressed the collective challenges faced by the education sector. He called for collaboration among stakeholders to establish a sustainable financial framework that could accommodate all students, especially given the increasing budgetary pressures faced by the Government.

Furthermore, Ogamba urged stakeholders to explore innovative financing mechanisms such as public-private partnerships and alumni contributions, aimed at reducing dependence on government funds. There is a pressing need to focus on equitable access to higher education for marginalized students and to foster their academic success.

He provided an update on public university debts, which escalated significantly since he took office. Encouragingly, proactive measures, including the Student-Centered Model, have begun to mitigate these financial challenges, reducing the debt from Sh75 billion to Sh72 billion.

Chief Executive Officer Geoffrey Monari of the University Fund voiced concern that the ongoing court case could exacerbate universities’ financial difficulties. He emphasized that implementing the new funding model is critical for alleviating financial strains on institutions and ensuring students continue their education without interruption.

The DUC funding model categorizes students based on their household income and financial need. Each category is allocated a different level of government support, designed to target assistance where it is most needed, thereby promoting equitable access to education across financial backgrounds.

The Kenyan Government is committed to refining its university funding approach, striving for a more equitable and effective model through the Differentiated Unit Cost system. Despite legal challenges that pause its implementation, officials remain determined to resolve these issues and ensure access to higher education for all needy students. Stakeholders are encouraged to explore innovative financing methods that complement government initiatives, ultimately supporting continued educational growth in Kenya.

Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke