A group of University of Nairobi (UoN) students protested outside the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) offices at Anniversary Towers today.
They expressed their frustration over delays in loan disbursements, which have left many students struggling to pay fees and cater for personal expenses.
The students attempted to force their way into the HELB premises, demanding immediate action regarding the prolonged wait for funds.
Police intervened to disperse the protesters and restrict access to the area, preventing potential disruptions in the Central Business District (CBD).
This protest follows a seven-day ultimatum issued by UoN students on January 14, demanding that the government address the delays or face mass demonstrations.
The students stated that the financial support is crucial for paying tuition, accommodation, and daily necessities, and many are now facing financial distress.
“We have rent arrears, we can’t afford meals, and our academic progress is at risk,” said one protester. “HELB is our lifeline, and these delays are unacceptable.”
The board attributed the delays to budgetary constraints, increased demand for financial aid, and challenges in recovering loans from previous beneficiaries.
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Established in 1995 to provide affordable loans to university and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students, HELB has faced growing criticism for recurrent delays in disbursement over recent years.
In a statement, HELB acknowledged the issues, citing regulatory compliance and processing challenges, but assured students those efforts were being made to expedite disbursements.
“We are aware of the frustrations caused by the delays and are working tirelessly to ensure the funds are released as soon as possible,” the statement read.
Despite these assurances, students from various institutions have voiced their dissatisfaction with HELB’s handling of the situation and warned of further demonstrations if the agency does not resolve the issue promptly.
The standoff has reignited concerns about the sustainability of the student loan program, with calls for the government to prioritize education funding to protect the academic future of thousands of students dependent on HELB.
By Joseph Mambili
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