HELB disburses Sh9.46 billion to support over 300,000 university students
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba confirmed on Tuesday, 19 August, that Sh5.76 billion of the funds would cover tuition fees
The Ministry of Education, through the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), has released sh.9.46 billion to assist 309,178 university students across Kenya.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba confirmed on Tuesday, 19 August, that Sh5.76 billion of the funds would cover tuition fees, while sh.3.7 billion is earmarked for student upkeep.
He encouraged students and their families to log into their HELB portals to verify receipt of the funds and access detailed information about their loan accounts.
“We are pleased to inform parents, guardians, and students that HELB has disbursed a total of Sh9.46 billion in financial support to 309,178 university students,” CS Ogamba said.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring higher education remains accessible and affordable.
The funding follows the government’s recent announcement to increase the HELB capitation by Sh5 billion, raising it from Sh36 billion to Sh41 billion.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki said the boost would expand student access to loans and bursaries, helping more learners pursue their education without financial barriers.
DP Kindiki added that the government’s broader education strategy includes reducing university fees and expanding support for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.
The initiative aims to equip students with industry-relevant skills that meet the needs of Kenya’s growing economy.
The Ministry stressed that this financial support is part of ongoing efforts to ensure students can focus on their studies without the constant worry of fees or living expenses.
By combining tuition coverage and living allowances, the government seeks to create an environment where higher education is inclusive and sustainable, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
With this latest HELB disbursement, thousands of learners can now continue their academic journey, secure in the knowledge that the government is investing in their future and in Kenya’s long-term human capital development.
