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{
    "id": 1544438,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1544438/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 71,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Sen. Methu",
    "speaker_title": "",
    "speaker": {
        "id": 13581,
        "legal_name": "Methu John Muhia",
        "slug": "methu-john-muhia"
    },
    "content": "Mr. Speaker, Sir, I rise pursuant to Standing Order No.53(1) to seek a statement from the Standing Committee on Education regarding the continued delay in the disbursement of Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funds, which has left thousands of university students stranded and unable to meet their basic needs. Despite assurances from the Government that HELB funds would be disbursed by Friday 15th March, 2025, many students are yet to receive their financial aid. Students require immediate and tangible action, not verbal commitments that do not translate into actual disbursements. The failure to release funds in a timely manner has exposed thousands of young Kenyans to evictions, hunger, mental distress and inability to attend classes due to unpaid fees. In the Statement, the Committee should address the following- (1) The concrete measures being taken by the Government to ensure the immediate disbursement of HELB funds, including a clear and accountable timeline for payment. (2) The total number of students affected by the delay with a county-based breakdown to assess the scale of the crisis, specifying the interventions in place to prevent future delays and guarantee timely and predictable disbursement to all students going forward. (3) The financial position of HELB, including the amount allocated for the current academic year, to the total disbursement disbursed so far and the outstanding balances. (4) The Government's plan to enhance HELB allocation and to align with the rising cost of living, ensuring students receive adequate financial support. (5) The accountability mechanisms in place to prevent the recurrence of such delays, including clarity on whether the National Treasury has released the required funds to HELB."
}