Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has announced an increase in the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) budget from Ksh36 billion to Ksh41 billion.
Speaking during a foundation stone-laying ceremony at Limbine School in Meru County, CS Ogamba said the increased funding demonstrates the government’s resolve to ensure no student is left behind in the pursuit of education.
The Universities Fund has also been allocated Ksh16.9 billion, supporting over 200,000 first-year university students and 237,000 trainees in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions this academic year.
At the event, the CS lauded the school’s alumni for spearheading the infrastructural development initiative in collaboration with Tigania West MP John Kanyuithia Mutunga.
He described the effort as a “model worth emulating” and a testament to the vital role former students can play in shaping the future of their alma mater.
“The alumni of any institution are its first brand ambassadors,” said Ogamba. “Their shared history and understanding of the school’s needs make their contributions both meaningful and impactful.”He urged other learning institutions to strengthen ties with alumni, noting that such partnerships can provide not only financial support but also professional services, mentorship, and critical resources — especially as schools grapple with rising enrolment and infrastructure demands.
CS Ogamba also provided updates on key reforms in the education sector, particularly the transition to Competency-Based Education (CBE).
He revealed that the first Grade 9 assessment will be held later this year, ahead of the first cohort’s entry into Senior School in January 2026.
In preparation for this shift, the government is constructing 1,600 science laboratories and distributing textbooks at a one-to-one ratio per learner. Additionally, 24,000 teachers will be recruited, with Ksh. 950 million earmarked for retooling Senior School teachers.
He concluded by urging school leadership to use public resources transparently and efficiently, emphasizing that strong alumni involvement can help foster institutional accountability.
“I am confident that the example you have set here today will inspire similar action across the country,” he said.
