Machakos University students stage demo over HELB loan delay

Machakos University students on Thursday paralysed operations on the Machakos-Wote Road demanding that the government release Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funds.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, the university students’ body President Ian Kibet lamented that despite the institution opening two months ago, the government has reportedly not remitted the said funds, meant for school fees and upkeep, to the bank accounts of qualified students.

This, he says, has made it difficult for the students to maintain their lifestyles in the institution.

"We are here as the students of Machakos University to demand for what we were promised by the government. The demos will continue if they don't do so immediately," he said.

His sentiments were shared by his deputy, Vice President Grace Maina, who noted that some students are going to miss their final exams owing to school fees arrears.

Police were forced to lob teargas canisters to disperse the demonstrating students and restore order in Machakos town.