The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Kenya’s education sector through increased funding, research, innovation and digital transformation.
But the allocation comes as calls were made to encourage public universities to diversify their income sources to secure long-term financial sustainability.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said the education sector has received a record Sh784.5 billion allocation in the 2026/27 Financial Year, the highest since independence, reflecting the government’s commitment to making education a key pillar of national development.
Speaking during the 59th graduation ceremony of Kenyatta University on Friday, Ogamba said the allocation, representing nearly 30 percent of the national budget, will finance capitation, scholarships, student loans and implementation of collective bargaining agreements to maintain industrial harmony in learning institutions.
“The government remains committed to building a competitive, inclusive and financially sustainable tertiary education system where no qualified Kenyan is left behind,” he said.
The Cabinet Secretary, however, challenged universities to reduce reliance on the Exchequer by strengthening resource mobilization through research grants, innovation, strategic partnerships and alumni support.
“The era when universities depended almost entirely on government funding is behind us. Institutions must diversify their sources of income to protect their independence and secure their future,” he said.
Ogamba said the Government was promoting commercialization of university research to ensure innovations contribute to job creation, enterprise development and economic growth.
He added that investment in digital learning infrastructure and the responsible use of artificial intelligence will remain central to reforms aimed at preparing graduates for a rapidly evolving global economy.
The Cabinet Secretary urged universities to involve students in ongoing reforms affecting higher education, including funding models, curriculum reviews, technical and vocational education and integration of emerging technologies.
Referring to the graduation theme, “Youth Engagement for Co-Creation of Inclusive Education,” Ogamba said young people should not be viewed merely as recipients of education but as partners in shaping an inclusive education system.
He further called for equal opportunities for learners from marginalized communities, persons with disabilities, refugee populations and disadvantaged households.
Addressing the graduates, Ogamba encouraged them to become innovators and entrepreneurs capable of creating employment opportunities instead of waiting for jobs.
“The knowledge and skills you have acquired should enable you to solve problems, create opportunities and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
Kenyatta University Chancellor Ambassador Francis Muthaura commended the Government for prioritizing education, describing investment in human capital as the foundation of national competitiveness.
He said education remains the most important responsibility of any government because it equips citizens with the knowledge and skills required to compete in an increasingly interconnected and competitive global environment.
“Without human capital development, a country cannot compete effectively. The world has become increasingly competitive and education is the key to productivity, innovation and quality service delivery,” Muthaura said.
He congratulated the graduates for successfully completing their academic programmes, saying the graduation marked both the culmination of years of hard work and the beginning of a new phase of service to society.
Muthaura also paid tribute to parents, guardians and lecturers for supporting the graduates throughout their academic journey.
Speaking on the graduation theme, the Chancellor said inclusive education can only succeed if young people are actively involved in designing and improving education systems.
“Inclusion cannot be designed for young people without involving them. They are not merely beneficiaries of education but partners in shaping its future,” he said.
He observed that today’s graduates are entering a world shaped by rapid technological advancement, artificial intelligence, climate change and shifting global realities, requiring universities to produce graduates with not only academic knowledge but also sound judgment, integrity and adaptability.
The ceremony brought together education stakeholders, university leaders, parents and graduands to celebrate academic achievement while reaffirming the role of higher education in driving Kenya’s socio-economic transformation.
By Aron Kinyamasyo
