Chief Justice Martha Koome Condemns Inequity in University Funding Model.

Chief Justice Martha Koome has recently disclosed that she has stopped watching the news due to the distressing content that highlights societal inequalities.Speaking on 22, August 2024, Koome explained that she finds the news particularly disheartening, especially when it showcases the stark disparities in the allocation of resources. She cited an example of how university students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds are placed in Band 5, while those from wealthier families are placed in Band 1.

"I no longer watch the news because it constantly confronts us with the harsh reality of inequality and injustice in our society," Koome expressed.She elaborated on the situation, saying, "It’s heart-wrenching to see a student, who has earned the right to attend university, struggling because they’ve been placed in Band 5 when they should be in Band 1. Meanwhile, a student from a privileged background is conveniently placed in Band 1."

Koome emphasized the need for the reallocation of funds to the Ministry of Education, advocating for free education for all Kenyans. "There are bursary funds allocated from taxpayers’ money, distributed by governors, women representatives, MPs through CDF, and MCAs. Why not channel these funds into education and make it free for everyone?" she proposed.

These remarks from the Chief Justice come amidst growing concerns among Kenyans regarding the new university funding model, where first-year students have been categorized into five bands based on their family income. Band 1 includes families with a monthly income of up to KSh 5,995, while Band 2 covers families earning up to KSh 23,670. Band 3 includes families with an income of up to KSh 70,000, and Band 4 includes those with an income of up to KSh 120,000. Families earning above KSh 120,000 fall into Band 5.