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MPs Pass Bill for Free University Education, Sparking Hope Amid Warnings A Game-Changer for Kenyan Families and Higher University student leaders are also excited. Learning John Omondi, president of the Kenya Uniday after the National Assembly passed versity Students Union, said, “Most of us the Education [Amendment Bill], 2025, are struggling with fees, rent and food. This law could change lives.” which seeks to make university education free in all public institutions, the country is Still, some experts are cautious. Dr. Mercy still buzzing with mixed reactions. Mwikali, a university lecturer, said the govThe Bill was introduced by Riara MP Hon. ernment must explain how it will fund the policy. “Will learning quality suffer? Will James Kinyua aims to scrap the current lecturers get paid? We need a clear plan,” student funding model, which many have she said. called unfair and confusing. If signed into law by the President, students in public universities will no longer have to pay tuition fees.
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“This is a win for every child in the village who dreams of going to university,” said. Hon. Kinyua after the Bill was passed, despite strong opposition from the government side. “No student should be left out just because of poverty.”But not everyone is celebrating. Treasury CS Prof. Njuguna Ndung’u warned that the government doesn’t have enough money to support this kind of policy. “It’s a noble idea, yes — but how do we sustain it?” he asked. The debate in Parliament was intense. Opposition and some independent MPs supported the move, while those close to the government said it was unrealistic and risky for the economy.
MPs in Parliament during the historic passing of the Education Bill on March 3, 2025, marking a major step towards free public university education in Kenya. - Image by Jeff Angote
The Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) also gave their views. “We support free education,” said UASU Secretary-General Dr. Jared Otieno. “But the government must not forget research, infrastructure, and staff welfare.” The Kenya Parents Association has urged the President to sign the Bill quickly but also called for proper planning to avoid confusion during student admissions The Bill now awaits President William Ruto’s signature. If he agrees, this will be one of the biggest shifts in Kenya’s education system in years.
Outside Parliament, though, many Kenyans are hopeful. Parents and students say this could finally ease the burden of school fees. “I’ve been doing mjengo jobs to pay my daughter’s fees,” said Margaret Wanjiku For now, many families are hopeful but from Nakuru. “If this law goes through, I’ll there are still many questions about what lies ahead. finally have peace of mind.”