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{
    "id": 1489735,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1489735/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 390,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Machakos County, WDM",
    "speaker_title": "Hon. Joyce Kamene",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": " Hon. Speaker, I beg to move: THAT, the Higher Education Loans Board (Amendment) Bill, (National Assembly Bill No.58 of 2022), be now read a Second Time. The principal object of this Bill is to amend the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) Act No.3 of 1995 to address a specific challenge that is faced by our young students who have not yet attained the age of 18 years and, as such, are ineligible to apply for the HELB under the current legal framework. However, Article 27(4) of the Constitution, 2010 on equality and freedom from discrimination outlines that the State shall not discriminate directly or indirectly against any person on any grounds, including age. The Bill expressly provides that the HELB shall not deny a loan to a student who has not yet attained the age of 18 years. This provision recognises that many students complete their secondary education early and deserve the same opportunities for financial support as their older peers. For students under the age of 18, the Bill introduces the requirement that their parents or guardians must be co-signatories to the loan agreement. This ensures that there is legal responsibility and accountability for the loan, thus protecting both the student and the Board, while allowing access to loans for eligible students. Article 43(1)(f) of the Constitution of Kenya on economic and social rights states: “43(1) Every person has the right – (f) to education.” This guarantees every person the right to education. By removing age-related barriers to accessing higher education loans, the Bill seeks to enhance this right ensuring that all students, regardless of age, have an equal opportunity to access financing for their university education. In addition, Kenya’s Vision 2030 aims to transform Kenya into a middle-income country by enhancing access to education and ensuring an educated workforce that is capable of driving economic development. By removing barriers for students under 18 years of age, the Bill supports Kenya Vision 2030’s goal of increasing access to higher education and producing a skilled competitive workforce. The amendment Bill is also crucial in allowing students who have not yet received their national identification cards to still apply for higher education loans. This removes a significant barrier for many students and ensures that every eligible student can pursue higher education, regardless of their age or ID status. This Bill ensures that all students, regardless of age, have equal access to the financial resources that they need to further their education. It prevents the exclusion of young, bright students who may complete their studies earlier than expected. It is worth noting that many students are excelling in their studies and completing secondary school before they attain the age of 18 years. They should not be penalised for their academic success by being denied access to financial aid. This amendment Bill will ensure that the system recognises and supports their efforts. Hon. Speaker, moreover, the amendment Bill strengthens the HELB’s mandate by adapting the policies to better service the changing educational landscape, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness and relevance of the National Student Loans Programme. In conclusion, this amendment Bill is essential in ensuring fairness and inclusivity in our education system. It addresses a long-standing gap and ensures that every deserving student, regardless of age, has access to financial support for their education. It has been said many times that education is an equaliser. I urge Members of this House to support this Bill and ensure its swift passage for the benefit of our young students and the future of our education system. Hon. Speaker, I beg to move and request Hon. Ounda to second."
}