Kenya, through its ministry of education, says it is streamlining higher education funding model to enhance efficiency and accountability.

Principal Secretary for Higher Education and Research Beatrice Inyangala said the ongoing reforms will ensure that every cent allocated to higher education reaches its intended beneficiary while enabling universities to achieve their desired outcomes.

Dr Inyangala made the remarks during the 13th graduation ceremony of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) against a backdrop of challenges in the funding model. Delayed disbursement of funds affects university operations, she noted.

The principal secretary also noted that the new funding model aligns resources to support learners according to their needs while safeguarding long-term financial sustainability of higher learning institutions. The principal secretary observed that the responsibility of supporting higher education cannot rest solely on the government, calling on the private sector, corporate organisations, and philanthropists to partner with universities through scholarships, research, and internships.

“By working with universities, industries will not only build skills but also create ethically grounded and future-ready graduates,” Dr Inyangala said.

She commended JOOUST for its achievements in research, innovation, technology transfer and collaborations, which have enabled it to secure Ksh112 million in external research funding supporting postgraduate training, climate research, biotechnology, and equipment acquisition aligned with the government’s BETA agenda.

University Chancellor Shem Wandiga and Vice Chair of University Council Ambeyi Lugabo praised the institution for its infrastructural development and increased student enrolment. Wandiga noted that the new library will serve as a centre of excellence for years to come.

Amb Lugabo noted that JOOUST has attained national and global recognition through research and collaborations and is implementing policies to address funding gaps. He disclosed that the university recently launched an endowment fund and a foundation to enhance resource mobilisation.

A total of 1,862 graduands were conferred with degrees, diplomas and certificates during the ceremony.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Brian Ondeng