For many students in Kenyan universities and colleges, admission letters bring joy, pride, and hope for a better future. However, that excitement quickly fades for a section of students who discover they have not received support from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB). These “unfunded students” begin a difficult journey of survival in campus life, where every day becomes a struggle to balance academics and basic needs.
One of the biggest challenges unfunded students face is financial pressure. Without HELB loans, paying tuition fees becomes difficult, and many are forced to sit out of classes or defer semesters. In some cases, students are sent home due to fee balances that they cannot clear. This interruption not only delays graduation but also increases emotional stress and uncertainty about the future.
Life in the hostel or off-campus is equally tough. Rent, food, transport, and personal needs all require money. Unfunded students often rely on part-time jobs, which are not easy to find and rarely pay enough. Some take up hustles such as selling clothes, offering academic writing services, or working in eateries just to survive. While these jobs help, they also consume valuable study time, making it harder to concentrate on academics.
Hunger is another silent struggle. Many students skip meals or reduce their eating frequency to once a day. The idea of a balanced diet becomes a luxury rather than a normal expectation. Concentration in class suffers, and fatigue becomes a constant companion. Yet, most of these students still try their best to attend lectures and keep up with coursework despite the hardship.
Social life is also affected. Unfunded students often withdraw from group activities, outings, and events because they cannot afford them. This isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and stress. In a campus environment where social connections are important, this separation can make life even harder.
Despite all these challenges, many unfunded students show remarkable resilience. They learn how to budget strictly, seek opportunities, and support each other. Some form small groups to pool resources or share information about jobs and survival strategies. Their determination reflects a strong desire to succeed against all odds.
The struggle of unfunded students raises broader questions about access to higher education and equity. As the cost of living continues to rise, the gap between funded and unfunded students becomes more visible. Many hope for reforms that will ensure no deserving student is left behind due to financial constraints.
In conclusion, life without HELB is a difficult reality filled with sacrifices, uncertainty, and perseverance. Yet, it also reveals the strength and determination of students who continue to pursue education despite overwhelming challenges.
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