New University Funding Now A Benefit of Private Universities in Disguise
Private universities are experiencing a surge in demand for admissions as students opt for them over public universities due to the perceived costliness of the new funding model, particularly the loan component.
This trend marks a significant relief for private universities, which had faced low admission numbers since 2016 and had relied on the government to place and sponsor some students.
Several sought-after programs in private universities have reached full capacity, leading prospective students to be asked to wait for the January intake.
Students and parents have cited various reasons for choosing private universities over public ones. Some, like Mr. Cyprian Mavindu, were dissatisfied with the program and university they were placed in by the government and opted for private institutions. Mavindu’s son, for example, decided to pursue a computer science degree at Daystar University instead.
The uncertainty surrounding government funding has also influenced many parents, as the application window closes on October 7, with results expected a week later. The new funding model divides funding into scholarships and student loans, with students enrolling in public universities eligible for both, while those in private universities only qualify for student loans.
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Private universities are now witnessing a surge in admissions, with Mount Kenya University reporting that all their students are privately sponsored, eliminating the reliance on government funding. They emphasize that their fees are competitive with those of public universities.
The funding model has also prompted private universities to declare the costs of their programs, providing transparency for parents and students. However, there are concerns that the loan component of fees could result in students graduating with substantial debt, similar to the American model.
Despite these concerns, private universities are experiencing a surge in admissions, as students and parents appreciate the predictability and timely completion of programs, leading to increased peace of mind.
Overall, the new funding model is reshaping the landscape of higher education in Kenya, with private institutions benefiting from the changes and students making more informed choices based on cost and program suitability.
New University Funding Now A Benefit of Private Universities in Disguise
