The government has announced that the cost of studying at the Open University of Kenya (OUK) will drop by more than 30% once the institution is fully operational. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba made the announcement during a retreat with the university’s Council and Management in Naivasha on Thursday.
Ogamba attributed the reduced costs to the university’s digital and flexible model, which minimizes overhead expenses common in traditional institutions. “The cost of education in the Open University is lower because of the mode of instruction and the flexibility of the programmes they have,” he said.
The initiative aims to address the longstanding issue of affordability in higher education, potentially unlocking opportunities for thousands of Kenyans previously shut out due to prohibitive costs.
The Ministry of Education has set an ambitious goal of enrolling over 50,000 students in the Open University by the end of 2026. Ogamba emphasized that this target is not just about widening access but also about ensuring financial sustainability. “The more students we have, the more programmes we have in the Open University, and that will assist it to easily wean off the exchequer,” he noted.
The government is also working on introducing modular and micro-credential qualifications, allowing learners to gain certifications gradually. This learner-friendly approach is designed to suit the needs of working adults and non-traditional students, while aligning with modern job market demands.
Ogamba urged the university leadership to focus on launching market-driven programmes, strengthening digital infrastructure, and forming strategic partnerships to grow the institution.
In addition to the Open University programme, the government is also expanding the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. TVET enrolment has risen sharply from 375,000 in December 2024 to 700,000 by May 2025. The target is two million by year-end.
Ogamba said efforts are underway to market TVET courses through local forums and home visits, ensuring more Kenyans are equipped with hands-on skills.
These reforms mark a transformative step towards inclusive, accessible, and future-focused education in Kenya.
