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Reprieve for public university students as State lowers fees
Higher Education Principal Secretary Beatrice Inyangala.
University students have received a major reprieve after the government announced a reduction in university fees, just as thousands of first-year students begin reporting to institutions of higher learning.
In a letter dated July 30, 2025, addressed to Vice-Chancellors of public universities and Principals of Constituent Colleges, Higher Education Principal Secretary Dr Beatrice Inyangala announced the revision of fees payable across all academic programmes.
The directive, which takes effect from September 1, 2025, will apply to both first-year and continuing students.
“All public universities are further directed to update their admissions and finance portals to reflect the revised fees of academic programmes,” said Dr Inyangala.
The revised fees come after widespread public concern and consultations involving students, parents, and education stakeholders.
Dr Inyangala said the move aligns with the government’s new Student-Centred Funding Model, which combines tuition fees, scholarships, and loans based on individual students’ financial needs.
The Principal Secretary defended the ongoing reforms in university education funding, terming them bold and necessary to ensure quality, affordability, and sustainability in the sector.
“The government remains steadfast in its vision to transform higher education as a cornerstone of national development. We count on your full cooperation to implement these financing reforms efficiently, equitably, and in the best interest of Kenyan students and families,” said Dr Inyangala.
She added that the government has significantly reduced the cost of various university programmes.
