The government has disbursed KES1.56 billion to support over 65,000 students in universities and TVET institutions across Kenya, offering much-needed relief to learners who have struggled for months without financial support since the semester began in January.

In a statement on Tuesday, March 18, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba confirmed that the funds, released on Friday, March 14, have benefited 31,263 TVET trainees and 33,863 university students. The CS urged students to check their HELB portals for updates on their disbursements.

“On Friday, March 14, 2025, HELB disbursed KES1.56 billion to students and trainees for tuition and upkeep. The beneficiary students and trainees have since been notified of the disbursements through HELB's official communication channels and advised to check their HELB portals,” CS Ogamba said.

The ministry added that the latest funding is part of a broader financial aid program for the FY2024/2025 and brings the total amount allocated in the period to KES32.7 billion and has so far helped 195,522 TVET trainees and 390,612 university students.

CS Ogamba explained, "The provision of this funding will ensure that student and trainee needs are met, enabling them to continue with their academic, training and research programmes without hindrance.”

He also reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting higher education by ensuring timely disbursements, "The Government will continue to provide financial support to university students and TVET trainees towards the attainment of their academic and training goals."

This announcement is in line with President William Ruto’s directive last Wednesday when he acknowledged the financial challenges facing higher education and directed the Head of Public Service to ensure prompt disbursement of students’ funds.

“If the money is not in your accounts by Friday, call me. There are some people I am going to take action against,” Dr. Ruto said.

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