University student leaders, representing Nairobi County, have expressed their appreciation for President William Ruto’s recent decisions to withdraw the Finance Bill and dissolve the Cabinet. These moves have been seen as positive steps towards addressing the concerns of the younger generation.
In a press briefing held in Nairobi, the student leaders acknowledged the President’s willingness to listen to the voices of young people and urged him to consider appointing young, creative, and competent individuals to the new Cabinet. They emphasized the importance of having youthful leaders who have distinguished themselves in leadership and public service to shape the future of the nation.
The students also issued a stern warning to Members of Parliament who have failed to represent the interests of their constituents. They reminded them that just as the President dismissed the Cabinet Secretaries, the public would review their positions, starting with their recent vote on the Finance Bill. The students promised to evaluate and recall those found inconsistent with the wishes of the citizens. They extended their caution to corrupt public servants and heads of parastatals, stating that “the winter of our discontent is coming.”
Regarding the education sector, the student leaders expressed their deep concern over the future of the nation’s education system. They highlighted issues such as the uncertainty of the competence-based curriculum and the high costs of higher education. They demanded assurances that the action points agreed upon between the former Cabinet Secretary of Education, Hon. Ezekiel Machogu, and student leaders on July 10th would be implemented without hesitation. These action points include:
- Review of the New Funding Model : Addressing the dissatisfaction of university students with the current system.
- Cost of Living : Enacting measures to manage the escalating costs of accommodation and meals around campuses.
- Timely Loan Disbursements: Ensuring that HELB and HEF loans are released promptly within the first weeks of each semester.
- Consultative Meeting: Proceeding with a scheduled meeting on August 9th with the Ministry of Education to provide updates on the progress of these demands.
- Student Organization: Creating a central organization of students under the Ministry of Education.
- Government Scholarships: Reving government policy by Parliament to allow students in private universities to receive government scholarships under HEF.
They also condemned the excessive force used by police during peaceful demonstrations, which resulted in the deaths of several students. They called for the reform of the police sector and the dismissal of those responsible for these deaths. They raised concerns about abduction cases, urging security agents to respect constitutional rights and either produce arrested individuals in court or release them.
Student leaders stressed that these measures are the first of many steps needed to fix the country. They affirmed that the young people are ready for change and are the custodians of their future. They expressed their readiness to engage with the President at a stakeholder level to support his efforts in rebuilding the nation and putting it on the right track.