First-year families struggle with upfront university fees

First-year students reporting to public universities are facing steep financial hurdles, with some institutions demanding payments of up to Sh50,000 (US$387) before admission. The unexpected requirements come as many learners wait for disbursement of loans from the Higher Education Loans Board (Helb), reports Janet Onyango for The Star.

At the University of Nairobi (UoN), students said they were asked to clear registration fees ranging between Sh23,000 and Sh50,000 as a condition for enrolment. In previous years, government-sponsored learners were admitted first, with fees settled later once Helb support was processed.

Parents and guardians say the sudden policy shift has left families struggling. Some are being forced to take loans amid rising living costs.
Full report on The Star site