Nairobi: The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Kenya’s education sector through increased funding, research, innovation, and digital transformation.
According to Kenya News Agency, the allocation comes amid calls to encourage public universities to diversify their income sources to secure long-term financial sustainability. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba announced that the education sector has received a record Sh784.5 billion allocation for the 2026/27 Financial Year, marking the highest funding since independence. This allocation underscores the government’s dedication to making education a key pillar of national development.
Speaking at Kenyatta University’s 59th graduation ceremony, Ogamba emphasized that the allocation, which represents nearly 30 percent of the national budget, will support capitation, scholarships, student loans, and the implementation of collective bargaining agreements to maintain industrial harmony in learning institutions. He highlighted the government’s commitment to building a competitive, inclusive, and financially sustainable tertiary education system where no qualified Kenyan is left behind.
The Cabinet Secretary, however, urged universities to reduce their reliance on government funding by enhancing resource mobilization through research grants, innovation, strategic partnerships, and alumni support. He stated that universities must diversify their income sources to protect their independence and secure their future.
Ogamba also noted that the government is promoting the commercialization of university research to ensure innovations contribute to job creation, enterprise development, and economic growth. Furthermore, investment in digital learning infrastructure and responsible use of artificial intelligence will remain central to reforms aimed at preparing graduates for a rapidly evolving global economy.
The Cabinet Secretary encouraged universities to involve students in ongoing reforms affecting higher education, including funding models, curriculum reviews, technical and vocational education, and the integration of emerging technologies. Referring to the graduation theme, “Youth Engagement for Co-Creation of Inclusive Education,” Ogamba stressed that young people should be viewed as partners in shaping an inclusive education system.
He also called for equal opportunities for learners from marginalized communities, persons with disabilities, refugee populations, and disadvantaged households. Addressing the graduates, Ogamba urged them to become innovators and entrepreneurs capable of creating employment opportunities instead of waiting for jobs.
Kenyatta University Chancellor Ambassador Francis Muthaura praised the government for prioritizing education, describing investment in human capital as the foundation of national competitiveness. He emphasized that education equips citizens with the knowledge and skills required to compete in an increasingly interconnected and competitive global environment.
Muthaura congratulated the graduates for completing their academic programs, marking the culmination of years of hard work and the beginning of a new phase of service to society. He also acknowledged the support of parents, guardians, and lecturers throughout the graduates’ academic journey.
Speaking on the graduation theme, Muthaura emphasized that inclusive education can only succeed if young people are actively involved in designing and improving education systems. He noted that today’s graduates are entering a world shaped by rapid technological advancement, artificial intelligence, climate change, and shifting global realities, requiring universities to produce graduates with not only academic knowledge but also sound judgment, integrity, and adaptability.
The ceremony brought together education stakeholders, university leaders, parents, and graduands to celebrate academic achievement while reaffirming the role of higher education in driving Kenya’s socio-economic transformation.
