In a protest that brought operations on the Machakos-Wote Road to a standstill, students from Machakos University demanded the prompt release of funds from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) on Thursday.

University students’ body President, Ian Kibet, expressed deep concern over the delay in the disbursement of these funds, intended for covering tuition fees and living expenses, as qualified students reported that they had not received the funds in their bank accounts. This delay has posed significant challenges to students’ livelihoods while at the institution.

“We, the students of Machakos University, are here to insist on the government’s commitment to fulfill its promises. Should this not happen immediately, our protests will persist,” Kibet declared.

The sentiments were echoed by Vice President Grace Maina, who emphasized that some students face the risk of missing their final exams due to outstanding school fees arrears.

The protest escalated to the point where law enforcement had to deploy teargas canisters to disperse the demonstrating students and restore order in Machakos town.

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