Needy students at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) can breathe a sigh of relief after the government released Sh500 million to support the learners.
The funds released by the National Treasury to support financially disadvantaged learners will be channeled through the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB).
The allocation, captured in the April 2025 Supplementary Budget, is expected to ease the financial burden many students have faced in recent months and safeguard their ability to continue with medical training uninterrupted.
KMTC Chief Executive Officer Dr Kelly Oluoch on Wednesday confirmed the disbursement.
“The HELB portal is now open, and students interested in applying for the financial support can do so starting today. The application window will remain open until June 24, 2025,” Oluoch said.
The funding follows sustained lobbying and engagement by KMTC in collaboration with key government stakeholders.
Speaking at the opening of the 8th Biennial KMTC Scientific Conference on June 4, 2025, in Nairobi, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale reassured students of the government’s commitment to unlocking financial assistance for those facing hardship.
KMTC students were previously eligible for HELB support until the 2023/2024 financial year.
However, following the government’s budget cut measures aimed at reducing public expenditure, this critical funding stream was suspended, leaving many learners stranded.
Oluoch noted that the lack of financial support placed significant pressure on students and threatened the continuity of their training.
“This compelled the College to intensify engagements with key institutions, including the Ministry of Health and the Parliamentary Committee on Health, to advocate for the reinstatement of the funding,” he said.
To complement government efforts, KMTC has also launched initiatives to raise additional funds, including the establishment of a dedicated student funding kitty and outreach to alumni to support the next generation of healthcare professionals.
With the HELB application portal now active, students have until June 24 to apply for the financial assistance and secure their academic future.