A Request For Timely Release Of Upkeep Funds For University And College Students
Most College and University students across the country rely heavily on the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) for financial support during their academic journey.
HELB plays a crucial role in enabling students to access education, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds. The upkeep funds provided by HELB help students meet their daily needs, including accommodation, food, transport, and other essential living expenses. Without this financial support, many students find themselves struggling to focus on their studies, as their energy is diverted to seeking ways to meet these basic needs.
In recent years, there have been notable delays in the disbursement of upkeep funds, leaving students in a state of financial uncertainty. This situation has a direct impact on students’ ability to perform well academically, as they are forced to worry about how to survive each day rather than focusing on their education.
Many students depend entirely on the funds provided by HELB to cover their day-to-day expenses. Delays in the disbursement mean that students may go without food, fail to pay rent, or have to resort to borrowing from friends and family. This financial strain leads to unnecessary stress and anxiety, which in turn affects academic performance. Many students live in off-campus housing, and the ability to pay rent on time is crucial. Delays in the release of upkeep funds can lead to eviction from housing, forcing students to face homelessness or resort to overcrowded and unsafe living conditions, further affecting their mental and physical health.
The inability to afford basic necessities such as food and medical care can have severe consequences on students’ health. Malnutrition, stress, and inadequate access to healthcare create barriers to learning and personal well-being, making it difficult for students to perform at their academics .When students are focused on how to survive financially, their attention is diverted from their studies. This results in poor academic performance, missed deadlines, and an increased likelihood of dropping out of school altogether. The overall goal of higher education is to foster learning and growth, but delays in upkeep funds undermine this mission.
In conclusion, it is clear that the timely disbursement of upkeep funds is essential to ensuring that students can focus on their studies and thrive academically. Delays in the release of these funds create significant challenges that can have long-term consequences for students’ well-being and success. We urge HELB to prioritize the timely release of these funds to ensure that students are able to meet their needs and continue their education without unnecessary financial distress.
Salome Mbuvi, (Media Student Rongo University.)
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