Parliament is starting an important process to combine all education funds and scholarships in Kenya to make basic education free and mandatory for everyone.
This comes after a proposal was made to create a special committee that will work on a clear plan for how to manage and distribute education funds more effectively.
The proposal was put forward by Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, who pointed out that the current system is confusing and not working well. He said, “Our children are struggling because there are too many overlapping scholarship programs. This plan aims to make sure education funding is clear, efficient, and reaches the right people without political issues.”
The new committee will look closely at the current education funds at both national and local levels to find problems and suggest improvements. They will also create a plan for a single National Education Fund and suggest new laws to support this system.
Mohamed emphasized the need for a legal framework that ensures every child in Kenya can get a good education, no matter their financial situation. He believes that free education should be a reality, not just a promise.
Once the committee is approved, it will have many tasks, including talking to important groups, setting rules for who can receive funds, and making sure the money is used properly.
“We’re not just forming another committee; we’re building a fairer and more responsible education funding system that aligns with our national goals,” Mohamed said.
Lawmakers are advocating for the merging of all funds and scholarships for needy students to address the current funding issues in schools.
The planned changes aim to combine the Higher Education and Loans Board (HELB) with all other funds, including those given by governors and legislators.
The committee is expected to present its findings to Parliament within 90 days.
Members of Parliament chosen for the committee include Naisula Lesuuda (Samburu West), Omboko Milemba (Emuhaya), Mary Emaase (Teso South), Stephen Mule (Matungulu), Elijah Njoroge (Gatundu North), Udgoon Siyyad (Wajir), Obara Eve (Kabondo Kasipul), and Titus Khamala (Lurambi).
Others include Charles Onchoke (Bonchari), Clive Gisairo (Kisii), Daniel Kiili (Matuga), Caroline Ngelechei (Elgeyo Marakwet), Reuben Kiborek (Mogotio), Jane Kagiri (Laikipia), Adan Keynan (Eldas), and Amina Mnyazi (Malindi).