Kenya: Ogamba Hits Back At Gachagua Over Opposition to University Funding Model

Nairobi — Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has hit back at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his continued criticism of the government's university funding model. Ogamba challenged leaders opposed to the reforms to offer alternative solutions instead of merely condemning the programme. He said the current system of financing higher education was unsustainable and defended proposed changes that seek to transform university funding into an investment in students' future careers. Speaking at the International Leadership University on Thursday, Ogamba took aim at Gachagua, who has repeatedly criticised the government's higher education funding model. Gachagua previously argued that the previous Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) system worked well and did not need replacement. Ogamba maintained that the government was pursuing a fundamentally different approach aimed at ensuring long-term sustainability of higher education financing. The proposed amendment Bill would introduce an investment approach where the State considers the eventual careers and earning potential of students when financing education. Ogamba cited students in law, medicine, and engineering, stating the government was investing in their education with the expectation they would contribute to the cost upon entering the workforce. He said the changes would also make higher education funding attractive to private-sector financiers, enabling them to view the model as bankable. The proposed Tertiary Education Placement and Funding Bill, 2026, would establish a new authority to oversee loans, scholarships, and other aspects of tertiary education financing. Ogamba argued that combining government resources with private-sector financing would support every student admitted to an institution of higher learning. He defended the reforms as designed to expand access to higher education while addressing financial pressures on universities and ensuring long-term sustainability. Gachagua had raised concerns over the new funding model before his removal from office, urging the government to listen to students and stakeholders. After leaving government, he became more critical, opposing the model due to concerns raised by parents and students. Ogamba challenged critics to provide substantive alternatives rather than merely criticising the programme for political reasons, emphasizing the need for truthful and constructive dialogue.