Education or Survival? The Harsh Reality Facing Kenyan Students

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By Tislam Ali, student, KCA University 

Photo Credits: KCA University 17th Graduation 


In March 2025, the story of Edna Kerubo, a 23-year-old medical student from Kisii County, captured national attention. By day, she attended lectures; by night, she hawked goods on the streets to fund her education. Denied a loan from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), Edna faced the grim prospect of dropping out. Her plight underscores the systemic financial challenges that many Kenyan university students endure.


"Student by day, hawker by night: Edna Kerubo at risk of dropping out after missing HELB loan" https://www.citizen.digital/news/student-by-day-hawker-by-night-edna-kerubo-at-risk-of-dropping-out-after-missing-helb-loan-n359525

Photo: Edna Kerubo/Citizen Digital/


Edna's experience is not an isolated case. Numerous students from low-income backgrounds grapple with the daunting task of financing their education. While HELB aims to provide financial aid, its reach is limited, leaving many without support. This gap forces students into precarious situations, balancing academics with part-time jobs or informal hustles to survive.


Nairobi Governor, Johnson Sakaja's intervention in Edna's case, pledging full sponsorship for her studies, was commendable. However, such individual acts of goodwill are not sustainable solutions to a widespread problem. A more comprehensive approach is needed to address the financial barriers hindering students' academic pursuits.


To truly empower the youth and secure the nation's future, especially in education, the government must:


1. Expand HELB’s Capacity by increasing funding to ensure more students can access loans.

2. Streamline Application Processes to Simplify procedures to make financial aid more accessible.

3. Introduce Work-Study Programs to allow students to earn while they learn, reducing financial strain.

4. Enhance Transparency by ensuring fair and equitable distribution of funds to deserving students among other measures.


Education is a fundamental right and a powerful tool for social mobility. By investing in students and removing financial obstacles, Kenya can cultivate a generation equipped to drive the nation’s development. 

Let Edna’s story be a catalyst for systemic change, ensuring that no student has to choose between education and survival.


Tislam Ali is a Journalism and Digital Media Student at KCA University. tislamalisalim@gmail.com


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