With only two weeks left before universities reopen for the new academic year, many students and parents are filled with anxiety. The biggest worry is about fees. While the government keeps insisting that everything is under control, on the ground the situation feels very different.

Last year the government introduced a new funding model for universities. The idea was that students would be supported based on their financial background. Those considered most vulnerable would get full support through scholarships and loans, while others would get partial assistance. In theory, this sounded fair. Leaders in the Ministry of Education have repeatedly said that no student will miss university because of money. President William Ruto himself assured Kenyans that the model will make higher education more equal.

Yet the reality facing families today is still unclear. Many students do not know the exact amount they are supposed to pay when they report. Some universities have sent admission letters with fee estimates that are much higher than what students expected. Parents, already struggling with the high cost of living, fear they may be asked to pay large sums upfront before government money is released. There are also concerns that delays in HELB loan processing could leave thousands of students stranded just as classes are set to begin.

Universities are also caught in this confusion. Many of them are facing serious financial strain and depend heavily on student fees to keep running. Without a clear timeline on when government funds will reach them, these institutions may find it difficult to function smoothly.

As the reopening date gets closer, the gap between government assurances and the experiences of parents and students continues to widen. Unless the confusion is addressed quickly, many learners risk starting their academic journey under unnecessary stress and uncertainty.