Kenya’s Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) is offering a crucial opportunity for university students to secure financial aid for their education. Chief Executive Officer John Oluoch of the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Services (KUUPS) has emphasized the importance of swift action, revealing that the application deadline for HELB loans is fast approaching on August 27.
Oluoch underscored the significance of adhering to this timeline, stating, ‘University-bound students must complete their HELB loan applications before August 27. Failing to do so will result in ineligibility for later consideration.’
He further noted that students who sat for the Kenya Certificate School Examination (KCSE) between 2000 and 2022 are eligible for placement in technical colleges and can apply for their preferred courses.
Addressing a gathering of over 300 principals from Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) institutions in Mombasa, Oluoch responded to concerns regarding the government’s directive for TVET institutions to admit individuals who completed the KCSE exams more than 20 years ago. ‘KUUPs has placed students in institutions for which they are qualified, including those eligible for HELB loans. It is imperative to support these students in their pursuit of education,’ Oluoch reassured.
He clarified KUUPs’ role in the placement process, noting that students who took the KCSE exams in the year 2000 should be placed in universities, as these institutions adhere to specific timelines for student intake.
Oluoch advised students who missed the recent placement to remain patient for the next opportunity, as the opening date of the placement portal is yet to be determined. He urged principals to assist students by facilitating their applications, requiring them to pay a nominal fee of Sh1,500, which covers the costs associated with the placement process.
Addressing concerns raised by some principals about students bypassing KUUPs during admission, Oluoch emphasized that students seeking government education loans must follow the established process through KUUPs to ensure eligibility.
During the workshop, participants reached a consensus on the need for institutions to shift towards a more practical industry-oriented approach in student training, with practical industries taking center stage in the curriculum transformation.
Act promptly to secure your educational aspirations and apply for HELB loans before the August 27 deadline. Your future awaits – seize this opportunity for financial assistance and academic success.”
