The government has announced a nationwide reduction in tuition fees for all public universities. The new structure will take effect on September 1, 2025, and applies to both incoming and continuing students. Principal Secretary for Higher Education, Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, confirmed the move on Wednesday, calling it a direct response to growing concern over the cost of higher education. She said the decision followed months of consultations with students, parents, education officials, and other stakeholders.
“The new structure will ease the financial strain on households while guaranteeing the sustainability of universities,” Dr. Inyangala said. “It reflects our commitment to make quality education accessible without compromising institutional integrity.”
The revised tuition model known as the Student-Centered Funding Model divides university costs among government scholarships, student loans, and affordable family contributions. The allocation is based on financial need, with priority given to low-income households.
Dr. Inyangala emphasized that the system aims to ensure fairness and support for vulnerable students. “This approach puts the learner at the center, ensuring no student is locked out of university due to lack of fees,” she said.
Public universities have been directed to update their admission and financial portals to reflect the new fee structure before the next academic cycle. The Ministry of Education will monitor compliance to ensure smooth rollout.
This marks the first major fee adjustment since the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) shifted toward needs-based allocations in 2024. Education experts say the change could widen access to higher education and reduce dropout rates caused by financial hardship.
Public institutions have struggled financially in recent years as enrollment grew faster than state funding. The government hopes that this new model will stabilize university finances while reducing student debt burdens over time.
Principal Secretary for Higher Education Inyangala described the funding reform as part of a broader education overhaul aimed at positioning universities as drivers of national development. She noted that future adjustments will continue to reflect economic realities and student needs.
More details about the funding thresholds and eligibility for increased government support are expected in updated Ministry guidelines due later this month.
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