Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has announced that the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has disbursed a total of Sh32.7 billion since the commencement of the 2024/2025 financial year. This announcement follows the latest disbursement round on Friday, March 14, during which Sh1.56 billion was released to students to cover both tuition fees and upkeep expenses.

In an official statement, CS Ogamba specified that 31,263 TVET trainees and 33,863 university students have benefited from these recent loan disbursements. This financial support aims to ensure that students' needs are adequately met, allowing them to continue their academic, training, and research programs without interruption. Ogamba emphasized the government's commitment to maintaining the disbursement schedule, highlighting the importance of these funds for the educational advancement of Kenyan students.

The announcement comes at a crucial time, as delays in capitation have been affecting students across various university campuses and TVET institutions. A recent spot check conducted by The Standard revealed a mixed situation, with some students having already received the funds in their bank accounts, while others, particularly those in their earlier years of study, are still awaiting disbursement. Despite these reported delays, CS Ogamba reassured the public that the government is on track with the planned disbursements.

CS Ogamba made these remarks in the context of ongoing efforts to bolster digital skills among Kenyan students, as exemplified by the launch of the Scaling Digital Skills program at Machakos Teachers Training College on October 24, 2024. The broader goal is to equip students with the necessary resources and skills to succeed in their educational pursuits and contribute effectively to the nation's development.

In related news, Geoffrey Monari has been appointed as the new CEO of HELB, signaling a strategic move to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the loan disbursement process. Additionally, recent data indicates that university debts have decreased by Sh3 billion over the past two years, reflecting positive trends in financial management within higher education institutions. University students have also expressed their appreciation for the release of Sh3.2 billion in HELB funds, acknowledging the state's efforts to support their educational endeavors.