Arise Media 
BY RITA MUTHONI
The Principal Secretary for Higher Education, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, has warned government officials who would submit incorrect student data during applications for the new funding model.
Speaking at a special school bursary launch and sensitization event at the University of Embu, Dr. Inyangala emphasized that these inaccuracies were causing significant challenges in the implementation of the system.
Dr. Inyangala highlighted that some of the reports received by the Ministry of Higher Education contain flawed data, which has hindered the smooth operation of the new funding model.
Dr. Inyangala emphasized the government’s responsibility to ensure a smooth and accurate rollout of the funding model, designed to support students based on need.
She expressed concerns over the integrity issues within the data collection process, noting that about 90 percent of the reports received from chiefs and sub-chiefs erroneously classify parents as peasants.
Additionally, there have been troubling reports of bribery, with money allegedly changing hands to manipulate the data.
“We have had integrity issues in this process and we are very concerned. The information being doctored is a serious problem. As a government, we have a responsibility to deliver, and we must collect the right information to serve our students in the right way,” she said.
During the event, people living with disabilities (PLWDs) in Embu County raised concerns that the new funding model might overlook their specific needs, similar to the previous systems.
However, Dr. Inyangala defended the new model, assuring that it is designed to be inclusive and to address the needs of all students, including those with disabilities.
She reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing any issues that arise, including the misplacement of students in inappropriate groups, and stressed that the system is being continually refined to better serve its intended purpose.
Manyatta MP John Gitonga Mukunji referred to the event as a great opportunity for parents, students and student leaders to share their views and recommendations on the new University Funding model.
“Students inappropriately placed in wrong bands will be correctly placed with the help of National Government Administration Officers (NGAO). We have also issued Kenya shillings One million bursary cheques to 140 pupils in different special schools,” he said.
The new funding model is a key initiative in improving access to higher education for students across the country.
However, the challenges in its implementation, particularly the submission of inaccurate data, could potentially undermine its effectiveness if not promptly addressed.
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