Kenya’s Public Universities Face Crisis as Government Funding Plummets by Sh13 Billion
Nairobi, Kenya — Public universities across Kenya are grappling with severe financial strain after government funding was slashed by a staggering Sh13 billion over the past three years, according to newly released data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS).
The drastic cuts, implemented under a new funding model, have left 24 institutions struggling to maintain operations as student admissions continue to rise. Experts warn that the financial crunch could jeopardize education quality and accessibility for thousands of students.
Universities Hit Hard by Funding Cuts
The University of Nairobi, Kenya’s largest and oldest institution, has been among the hardest hit. Its government allocation plummeted from Sh2.44 billion in the 2023/2024 fiscal year to just Sh534.79 million in 2025/2026—a staggering 78% drop.
Equally alarming is the sharp decline in government-sponsored students at the university, falling from 23,666 to 10,859 over the same period. The reduction raises serious concerns about affordability for low-income families who rely on state support for higher education.
Other major universities have faced similar setbacks:
- Technical University of Mombasa: Funding dropped from Sh1.06 billion to Sh90.9 million.
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT): Allocations fell from Sh2.5 billion to Sh474.83 million.
- Kenyatta, Egerton, and Maseno Universities: Each saw funding reduced from over Sh1 billion to slightly above Sh600 million.
Growing Student Numbers, Shrinking Resources
The funding crisis comes at a critical time, with more than 250,000 students expected to enroll in universities this September. The mismatch between rising admissions and shrinking financial support has left institutions scrambling to balance budgets while maintaining academic standards.
“This is a ticking time bomb,” said Dr. James Mwangi, an education policy analyst. “If universities can’t afford basic infrastructure, staff salaries, and research programs, the quality of education will inevitably suffer. The government must reassess its priorities.”
Why the Sudden Drop in Funding?
The new funding model, introduced in 2023, shifts financial responsibility from the government to students through a differentiated cost-sharing system. While intended to make higher education more sustainable, critics argue it disproportionately burdens families already struggling with high living costs.
“Many students come from humble backgrounds,” said Grace Wambui, a third-year student at the University of Nairobi. “If fees go up and scholarships disappear, only the rich will afford university. That’s not fair.”
What’s Next for Kenya’s Higher Education?
With no immediate solution in sight, universities are exploring alternative revenue streams, including partnerships with private firms and increased research grants. However, experts say these measures won’t fully offset the funding gap.
Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu has previously defended the new model, stating it ensures “equitable distribution of resources.” Yet, as student protests mount and lecturers voice concerns over delayed salaries, pressure is building for a policy review.
A Looming Crisis for Kenya’s Future Workforce
The long-term implications could be dire. A poorly funded higher education system risks producing underqualified graduates, weakening Kenya’s competitiveness in key sectors like technology, agriculture, and healthcare.
“Education is an investment, not an expense,” said Prof. Mary Walingo of Maseno University. “If we neglect it today, we pay the price tomorrow.”
As the new academic year approaches, students, parents, and educators are left wondering whether the government will intervene before the damage becomes irreversible.
— Reported by Nexio News
