HELB funding increased to Ksh41B to support needy students – Kindiki
By William Muthama, August 2, 2025Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has announced that the government has increased capitation to the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) by Ksh5 billion, in a move aimed at supporting more financially needy students in higher learning institutions across the country.
Speaking on Saturday, August 2, 2025, in Laikipia East Constituency during a graduation ceremony for over 500 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) graduates, Kindiki reiterated the government’s commitment to making education affordable, accessible, and relevant.
“The government has increased HELB capitation from Ksh36 billion to Ksh41 billion. This will ensure more learners from vulnerable backgrounds access funding for university and college education,” he said.
The Deputy President emphasised that the reforms are part of a broader plan to align the education sector with global standards and the needs of Kenya’s evolving economy.
University fees cut
In response to public outcry over the rising cost of higher education, Kindiki disclosed that university tuition fees have been reduced by between 15% and 40%, depending on the course of study.
“This is a critical step in easing the financial burden on families, especially those from low-income backgrounds,” he said.
He added that over the last two decades, the government has invested heavily in infrastructure by constructing 23,000 classrooms and initiating 1,600 science laboratories to enhance learning, particularly in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines.
TVET sector expanded
Kindiki also lauded the expansion of the TVET sector, noting that enrollment has surged from 297,000 in 2022 to over 700,000 currently, thanks to reforms, increased equipment, and modularised curricula.
He further highlighted the implementation of a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) framework, which formally certifies individuals with practical skills gained outside the classroom.
“This ensures no Kenyan is left behind simply because they lack formal academic papers,” Kindiki said.
He concluded by reaffirming the government’s plan to recruit 100,000 new teachers by the end of the year, with 76,000 already hired and an additional 24,000 set to join in coming months.