Higher Education at Risk Over Sh39.5 Billion State Department Budgetary Deficit
According to a report presented to the Departmental Committee on Education and Research, the State Department for Higher Education and Research is facing a budget deficit of Sh39.5 billion for its recurrent expenditure.
The report reveals that the required amount for the 2023/2024 Financial Year is Sh153.9 billion, whereas the allocation stands at Sh114.3 billion.
The report highlights a slight increase in net allocation due to the allocation of Sh6.9 billion for strategic interventions.
This additional funding aims to address the shortfall in universities’ salaries and enhance the funding for government-sponsored students in both public (Sh5.9 billion) and private universities (Sh1 billion).
During the consideration of the 2023/24 estimates of revenue and expenditure, the committee received the report.
It also states that the State Department has been allocated Sh3.3 billion for development expenditure, while the requirement is Sh12.4 billion, resulting in a shortfall of Sh9 billion.
The State Department emphasizes its commitment to establishing The Open University of Kenya, which is considered a priority area for the Ministry of Education.
This initiative falls under the Quick Wins deliverables category, and the goal is to have it operational by June 2023.
“It is also a high priority area for the Financial Year 2023/24 and, a Medium/Long Term priority to be mainstreamed in MTP IV (2023 – 2027),” the report states.
The Open University of Kenya aims to leverage digital technology to overcome barriers to education participation and increase access to cost-effective university education.
In terms of funding for the establishment of The Open University of Kenya, the report reveals that the Sector Working Group has allocated Sh170 million, which falls significantly short of the required amount of Sh1.4 billion.
Higher Education at Risk Over Sh39.5 Billion State Department Budgetary Deficit
