HELB could be replaced as Kenya redesigns the system for tertiary education funding
- Kenya's National Assembly is introducing the Tertiary Education Placement and Funding Bill, 2026, to create TEFA.
- TEFA will consolidate functions of HELB, the Universities Fund, and the TVET Funding Board into a single authority.
- The proposed authority will have broader financial powers, including mobilizing funds from private capital and other sources.
The establishment of TEFA represents a significant shift in Kenya's approach to tertiary education financing. While the consolidation of functions may streamline processes and enhance funding options, the real challenge lies in ensuring that the authority can secure sufficient and sustainable financing. Effective governance and clear transition plans for existing HELB obligations will be critical to the success of this initiative.
