The Universities Fund (UF) struck a strategic partnership deal with Chancen International that will help to expand students’ access to higher education.
The move is expected to benefit between 500 and 1,000 university students countrywide.
The signing ceremony took place at UF offices, led by UF acting Chief Executive Officer Dr Edwin Wanyonyi and Chancen International Country Director Gladys Mutisya. Also present during the meeting was Grants Management Deputy Director Dr Richard Ngali.
The partnership comes at a time when the need for innovative and inclusive financing solutions in higher education is rising.
Dr Wanyonyi emphasised Universities Fund commitment to diversifying and transforming funding streams to bridge gaps in access.
“This partnership reflects our dedication to ensuring no deserving student is left behind because of financial constraints,” he said.
And added: “Together with Chancen International, we are introducing a solution that is practical, sustainable, and sensitive to the needs of our diverse student population.”
At the heart of the partnership is the ‘Study Now, Pay Later’ model, an approach that helps students access quality education without the immediate burden of paying tuition fees.
Repayments are tailored to graduates’ future income, ensuring that repayments are manageable and aligned with the realities of the job market.
Key highlights of the initiative include targeted support for post-graduate learners and a Sharia-compliant financing option designed to meet the needs of Muslim students.
These will enable them to pursue advanced degrees that will contribute to innovation and national development.
The plan will also offer better flexibility and access to funding, making higher education a reality for more students.
Ms Mutisya said Chancen International’s mission aligns closely with UF’s vision of empowering students through accessible financing.
“We believe education is the most powerful tool for transformation, and this model allows us to remove one of the biggest barriers – affordability,” she said.
The programme will be rolled out in phases, with detailed eligibility guidelines and application processes to be announced soon.