The government, through the Ministry of Education, is reviewing the current education funding model to ensure no deserving learner is denied a chance to pursue their academic goals due to financial challenges, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migosi Ogamba has said.
Speaking in Meru County during the 6th graduation ceremony at the Meru National Polytechnic, where more than 3,000 students graduated at various levels, Ogamba said the new approach will widen access to education financing.
“We want every learner, regardless of their background, to have a fair shot at finishing school. No student should be locked out of education because of lack of fees,” said the CS.
He disclosed that the government has already released KSh 1.2 billion and intends to add an additional KSh 800 million to support student loans and fee capitation.
Ogamba hailed the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) model, saying it continues to produce graduates with practical skills suitable for the job market.
“The CBET model has helped address specific occupational standards and ensured that our students acquire the right skills that make them employable immediately after training,” he said.
Meru National Polytechnic Senior Principal Mutembei Kigige said close collaboration with local industries has strengthened training outcomes and job readiness.
“Our partnership with local enterprises allows employers to take part in shaping the learners’ training through dual programs, and this has helped us produce work-ready graduates,” he said.
The institution marked its milestone graduation with optimism that the new funding measures and training partnerships will boost youth employability across the country.
