The government has allayed fears public universities have increased fees for students set to join the institutions next month.

And as the government disclosed that stern measures would be taken against institutions found to have defied the set fees guidelines, it also explained it has allowed each of the 32 public universities to determine their own respective fees to enable them raise enough funds for their operations.

Education PS Belio Kipsang has given an assurance the government will not increase university education fees, as has been the fear among learners and parents.

Speaking in Thika, Kiambu county, Kipsang instead said about 45,000 university students will learn free of charge through State sponsorship while those who are able to pay fees will be charged a maximum of Sh22,000 per semester.

Addressing parents, students and teachers at Chania Boys High School during a fundraiser for construction of more classrooms and dormitories in Friday, Kipsang also reiterated that the government will fully implement recommendations of the Presidential Working Party on Education which among other things proposes the establishment of a national open university.

“I want to assure everyone that under the new funding model, we have not increased university education fees. In fact what will happen is that for the first time 45,000 students will go to university and acquire education without paying a shilling,” the PS stated.

And the agency entrusted with the placement of students in public universities explained that the new model where learners in various universities undertaking similar courses will be paying different fees is aimed at enhancing the institution’s autonomy for effective planning and operations.

The Kenya Universities and Colleges Placement Service (KUCCPS) chief executive Mercy Wahome disclosed that the government has deliberately avoided directing public universities to charge a uniform fee for courses that are similar.

Dr Wahome said public universities were left with an open window impose their respective fees in order to make them competitive to students.

Universities Fund CEO Geoffrey Monari on his part said the new model grants universities autonomy for effective planning and operation.

“Every university should be able to support its operations going forward because there shall be no more monthly capitation from the exchequer to the universities. Money shall only come from fees paid by students at the beginning of every semester,” he explained.

And speaking elsewhere yesterday, Deputy President Rigathia Gachagua dismissed claims that the University Education would become a preserve of the rich only.

According to the DP, the Presidential working team on education reforms in its recommendations had ensured that university education would be accessible to all students in the country regardless of their economic backgrounds.

“No student would be locked out under the new system of university education. That we can assure parents as the Kenya Kwanza administration,” said Gachagua.

Speaking during the 41 Graduation ceremony at the University of Eastern African Baraton in Nandi County, the DP told students to remain focused on their studies and keep off drug abuse.

– Oliver Musembi, Seth Mwaniki and Wycliffe Kipsang