From Afya Elimu Fund to HELB: KMTC students finally gain access to higher education loans

KMTC students in Kenya are now eligible to receive loans from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), an important step in their pursuit of higher education. For years, these students faced financial exclusion, relying primarily on the Afya Elimu Fund to cover their education expenses. The Afya Elimu Fund, established in 2013, provided scholarships and low-interest loans, but KMTC students pursuing certificate and diploma courses in medical fields were unable to access HELB loans due to institutional differences.

These differences arose from KMTC's placement under the Ministry of Health, while HELB primarily focused on students under the Ministry of Education. This disparity left many KMTC students unable to benefit from the same financing opportunities as their peers at other tertiary institutions. The situation worsened as the Afya Elimu Fund's funding weakened after the withdrawal of US aid to African countries, making it increasingly difficult for medical students to receive support.

Recently, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki announced at KMTC's graduation ceremony that students would be included in the HELB financing programme, promising them access to government-backed student loans. This move marks a significant shift in medical training financing in Kenya, as it will now provide students with an opportunity to access loans to cover tuition and other education-related expenses.

The inclusion of KMTC students in HELB's financing programme is expected to reduce the financial burden on families and expand access to medical training, ultimately contributing to the expansion of Kenya's healthcare sector.