Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s (MMUST) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, has embarked on a campaign to demystify the new University Funding Model. Today 14th August, 2024, Prof. Shibairo successfully led an informative online session on the ‘New University Funding Model’ for incoming students, hosted via X space. This initiative was particularly timely as students prepare to join the University on 29th August, 2024. The session, organized under Prof. Shibairo’s leadership in collaboration with the Directorate of Corporate Communications and Marketing (DCCM), aimed to provide students with essential insights into the new funding model.
The University’s top management, including the Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor Planning Research and Innovation, Prof. Josephine Ngaira; Registrar of Academic Affairs, Prof. Judah Ndiku; Director Quality Assurance, Prof. Danstone Lilechi; Director MMUST TVET, Prof. Basil Ong’or; Director ICT, Mr. Geoffrey Kones, and the Director DCCM, Dr. Lydia Anyonje together with her Team, were also present to guide students through the complexities of the model and to address any concerns.
A section of the University’s top management, the Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor Planning Research and Innovation, Prof. Josephine Ngaira (right); Registrar of Academic Affairs, Prof. Judah Ndiku (centre); Ag. Principal MMUST TVET, Prof. Basil Ong’or (far left).
In his address, Prof. Shibairo highlighted the significant financial challenges currently facing the higher education sector, driven by the increasing number of students qualifying for and enrolling in various programs. He explained that this growth has led to a substantial rise in budgetary demands, which are not being met by existing allocations, thereby placing considerable financial strain on higher learning institutions. Prof. Shibairo emphasized the critical need for students to fully grasp the new funding system in order to capitalize on the opportunities it offers. He provided a comprehensive overview of the new funding framework and discussed its implications for financing students’ academic programs.
“This student-centered funding model (SCFM) represents a significant shift from the previous block funding approach, the Differentiated Unit Cost (DUC), which primarily allocated funds directly to institutions, a block amount which was shared amongst the enrolled students which led to a lower grant amount per student. Under the new model, financial support is targeted directly to students based on their level of need, as determined by the Means Testing Instrument (MTI),” remarked Prof. Shibairo.
Prof. Solomon Shibairo making his address to the students.
The session attracted a significant audience, with over 4,500 participants, primarily first-year students and their guardians, who actively engaged in the discussion by asking questions to clarify their understanding of the new funding model. Prof. Shibairo addressed these questions and concerns, providing detailed responses on topics such as funding for various courses, booking of hostels, and specific requirements for different academic programs.
The discussion provided an invaluable opportunity for incoming students to connect with University leadership, setting the stage for a confident start to their studies at MMUST. The session was not only highly engaging but also exceptionally informative, offering both students and their guardians a comprehensive understanding of the new funding model. The active participation and insightful questions from attendees highlighted the importance of the dialogue, ultimately ensuring that students are well-prepared and informed as they embark on their academic journey at MMUST.
Director Quality Assurance, Prof. Danstone Lilechi and the Director ICT, Mr. Geoffrey Kones during the event.
Certainly, MMUST is committed to supporting its students by fostering a well-prepared and informed community. As the students prepare to join MMUST, they can do so with confidence, knowing that they are stepping into an environment which is wholeheartedly dedicated to their success and growth.
Story by Caren Nekesa
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
