Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu has announced that the government is working on various reforms to improve access and quality of education in the country.
According to Machogu, some of the reforms lined up for implementation are the funding model for universities and a related effort is the launch of the Open University of Kenya which will revive and enhance the effectiveness of the university sub-sector.
The National Open University of Kenya will provide distance learning and allow more students to enroll for academic programmes regardless of their geographical location, age or employment status.
The CS disclosed that the plans for the launch of the University are at an advanced stage, and that they are set to admit the first cohort of students in September, 2023 where Garissa University will also provide a convenient and flexible mode of study to students.
Speaking at the Garissa university during their 4th graduation ceremony, the Education CS said that his ministry is keen on providing the necessary resources and environment to ensure that universities thrive in skill development and societal transformation.
“Beginning the next Academic year, university students will be funded on the basis of the actual cost of their programmes. The funding will also be student-centered, and will take into account the level of need of a specific student,” Machogu said.
“The model will ensure that no one is left behind as far as access to quality university education is concerned. Socio-economic barriers will be eliminated, extremely needy and vulnerable students will not be required to pay a coin for their university education,” he added.
Machogu said that the reforms will supposedly play a crucial role in the development and transformation in the country and are intended to enhance service delivery, improve governance and promote quality and relevant education in the country’s universities.
The minister congratulated the graduands for their hard work, discipline and commitment in their academic endeavor.
By Latifa Hassan
