As the cost of living in Kenya continues to rise, university students are increasingly feeling the pressure. For many, support from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) is the main source of financial stability. However, growing concerns suggest that the current allocation may no longer be enough to meet students’ needs.
Over the past few years, the prices of basic commodities such as food, transport, and accommodation have steadily increased. What used to be manageable with a HELB upkeep allowance now barely lasts through the semester. Students are forced to make difficult choices—whether to spend on meals, academic materials, or personal needs.
“Sometimes you have to skip meals just to survive until the next disbursement,” says one student. “The money is just not enough anymore.”
Accommodation remains one of the biggest challenges. With rising rent both on and off campus, many students find themselves squeezed into small shared rooms to cut costs. Others are forced to live far from campus where rent is cheaper, increasing their daily transport expenses.
Food prices have also taken a toll. The cost of a basic meal in and around campus has gone up, making it harder for students to maintain a proper diet. As a result, some students resort to unhealthy eating habits or reduce the number of meals they take per day.
Transport is another hidden expense. For students who live off-campus, daily commuting costs quickly add up. Combined with other expenses such as internet bundles, printing, and academic materials, the HELB allocation is stretched to its limits.
To cope with these financial pressures, many students have turned to side hustles. From small online businesses to part-time jobs, students are finding creative ways to supplement their income. While this helps, it often comes at a cost—reduced study time and increased fatigue.
Financial experts argue that the gap between HELB allocation and the cost of living needs urgent attention. Adjusting loan amounts to reflect current economic realities could ease the burden on students. At the same time, there is a growing call for financial literacy programs to help students manage the little they receive more effectively.
Universities also have a role to play. Providing affordable accommodation, subsidized meals, and flexible payment options could help students navigate these challenges.
Despite the difficulties, students continue to adapt. Through resilience and creativity, many are finding ways to survive within their means. However, the question remains—how long can they keep up with the rising cost of living?
In the end, HELB remains a vital lifeline for thousands of students. But as economic conditions change, there is a clear need to re-evaluate whether the support it provides is still sufficient in today’s reality.
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