University applicants have been cautioned against providing false information about their family circumstances in an effort to secure higher levels of state funding, with officials warning that verification systems will be used to identify fraudulent claims.
The Universities Fund, which administers government scholarships, has urged students applying for government scholarships and loans to provide accurate details, saying false declarations about family status could undermine efforts to support genuinely vulnerable learners.
Speaking during a public sensitisation forum at Uriri High School in Migori County, Universities Fund Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr Edwin Wanyonyi warned applicants against misrepresenting their circumstances, including making false claims about their parents’ status.
“If your parents are alive, we will know,” Dr Wanyonyi said, adding that government verification systems would be used to confirm information submitted by applicants.
Under the needs-based funding model introduced in 2023, students are assessed according to their level of financial vulnerability, with those facing greater economic challenges eligible for higher levels of government support. Orphaned students who provide the required documentation are among those considered for the highest funding categories.
More than 200,000 students recently placed in universities and colleges through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) are currently submitting applications ahead of the September 6 deadline. The funding system, jointly administered by the Universities Fund and the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), is designed to direct assistance to students based on verified financial need.
HELB Chief Executive Officer Geoffrey Monari urged applicants to provide truthful information about their family background and financial circumstances.
“When you begin your application, make sure you select both scholarship and loan,” Mr Monari advised, adding that applicants claiming orphan status must provide valid supporting documents, including death certificates where applicable.
Mr Monari also cautioned students against using brokers or paying third parties, saying official communication on loan and scholarship decisions would only be sent through the contact details provided during registration.
– By Otieno Bildad
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