Egerton University on April 4, 2025, hosted a stakeholder engagement forum on student loan and scholarship appeals at Kilimo Hall, Main Campus. The session was part of a national exercise by the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) and the Universities Fund (UF), following a court ruling that declared the Variable Scholarship and Loan Funding Model unconstitutional. A stay order was granted on the condition that public participation be conducted within 14 days.
Prof. Mwanarusi Saidi, Registrar Academic Affairs, shares her insights on the importance of timely support for students
The engagement brought together students, parents, university staff, and the public to give their views on the appeals mechanism. Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage officially opened the forum, emphasizing the importance of ensuring fairness and accuracy in the placement of students within the funding bands. The acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration, Finance and Planning) Prof. Richard Mulwa welcomed the guests and encouraged open discussion.
Prof. Mwanarusi Saidi, Registrar Academic Affairs, welcomed the initiative, noting that it provided an important platform to address student concerns regarding loan disbursement and appeals. She expressed hope that such engagements would lead to more timely and efficient support for students.
A section of students follows proceedings attentively during the engagement session.
Students engaged robustly with HELB and UF representatives, including Michael Kiplagat and Mevis Mokaya, Loans Officers at HELB, and Immaculate Njoroge, Assistant Director, Corporate Communications at UF. The forum served as a platform for feedback and clarification on the loan and scholarship appeals process.
Among those present also were the Director, Research & Extension Prof. George Owor, University Librarian Ms Janegrace Kinyanjui, acting Registrar Human Capital & Administration Mr. Leonard Chesang, Director, School of Distance Learning Prof. Fred Keraro, Director Agroscience Park and Innovation Centre Prof. Paul Kimurto, Dean of Students Dr. Japhet Muthamia, and the Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery Dr Caleb Orenge.
A student raises a question during the interactive session with HELB and UF representatives
By Agnes Mwangi