Universities and colleges were yesterday ordered by the government to admit all students for learning, regardless of whether they have a household contribution for tuition or not.

The directive by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba to all Vice Chancellors comes at a time when confusion persists over the new funding model for students in universities and technical colleges.

The newly introduced model allocates funding to students based primarily on the student’s household income, a development that has confused students who have been categorized complaining of having been placed in the wrong bands.

Parents have been complaining that their children risk not joining university after the government awarded what they described as peanuts to needy households.

Others have questioned the legality of obtaining private data to establish the parent’s financial status and records, saying it violates their privacy protected by laws and the constitution.

But the government yesterday informed all students who have qualified for admission that they are guaranteed a place in their chosen institutions, irrespective of their ability to immediately pay the household contribution.

“Vice-Chancellors of public universities have therefore been directed to admit all qualified students without exception. Additionally, the Vice-Chancellors are required to facilitate suitable accommodation arrangements for first year students, with the guarantee that the necessary fees will be paid upon disbursement of the upkeep component,” Migos’ letter read in sections.

In addition, the ministry yesterday extended the deadline for fee and funding applications until December 31, 2024 with an aim of accommodating students who may experience delays in securing financial support

“The Ministry is working with the National Treasury to expedite the release of the requisite funds,” the CS said adding that the government is committed to ensuring that no deserving student is denied the opportunity to pursue higher education due to financial constraints.

Consequently, students with questions or appeals regarding fees and funding were advised to contact dedicated teams at universities during admission or through the Higher Education Portal, appeals that the CS revealed will be processed within three weeks from the date of application, ensuring timely financial support for students in need.