KMTC students to access HELB funding, says Kindiki

The government plans to ease the financial burden on Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) students who have so far been excluded from accessing loans from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB).

Speaking on Thursday during the 94th KMTC graduation ceremony at Kasarani Stadium, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki said the government will convene a meeting with relevant ministries to finalise a funding formula that will make HELB loans accessible to all KMTC students.

“I have been informed that KMTC students are not accessing HELB funding. I am convinced by the request to that effect. I will convene a meeting with the Cabinet Secretaries for Health, Treasury, and Education, among other key State departments, to agree on a formula on how the government will support KMTC students through HELB,” Kindiki said.

“Just like we are supporting university and TVET students, KMTC students need support.”

A total of 22,776 graduands received various certificates and diplomas during the ceremony.

Kindiki noted that many trainees face significant financial pressure and that extending HELB support will help ensure no aspiring health professional is left behind.

The Deputy President also highlighted reforms in the health sector under the Ruto administration over the past three years, aimed at improving access to quality healthcare.

“Healthcare is the foundation of human dignity, the heartbeat of every nation. Over the past three years, Kenya has undertaken major reforms in its health system,” he said.

He added that the government has expanded medical coverage through the Social Health Authority (SHA).

“Today, unlike in 2022 when only 7.5 million Kenyans had medical cover under NHIF, nearly 28 million Kenyans now have coverage. We are working to refine medical insurance under SHA to offer even better quality services,” Kindiki said.

He further emphasised the importance of community healthcare, noting that 107,000 Community Health Promoters—the largest primary healthcare workforce in the country—are trained, equipped, and deployed in all 47 counties.

“KMTC’s role in this success cannot be overstated. The College trains Community Health Assistants who work alongside Community Health Promoters to ensure healthcare reaches every household,” he said.

The Deputy President reiterated that the government is prioritising health, including the employment of 1,000 KMTC tutors this financial year, operationalising 18 stalled KMTC campuses, and constructing student hostels under the Affordable Housing programme, benefiting 54 campuses.

“This ceremony takes place at a defining moment in our nation’s education and health reforms. This year, we have invested Sh9.7 billion in KMTC to support staff recruitment, infrastructure development, equipping of classes and laboratories, personnel emoluments, and student welfare,” he said.

Kindiki encouraged KMTC to invest in research, innovation, and technology.

“The backbone of modern development is digital connectivity. Kenya has expanded fibre connectivity, established innovation hubs, and connected Wi-Fi hotspots in public places. At KMTC, digital health integration—including e-learning, telemedicine, and informatics training—reshapes how our graduates contribute to Universal Health Coverage,” he said.

He also highlighted government efforts to expand employment pathways for graduates, both locally and internationally, through strategic partnerships and professional standards.

“I am proud of the outstanding work Kenyan health professionals are doing internationally. Many of these professionals are KMTC alumni who have become ambassadors of our nation’s excellence,” he said.

Kindiki concluded by urging the graduands to take full advantage of government youth empowerment programmes such as Kazi Kwa Ground, Kazi Mtandaoni, and Kazi Majuu.

“As you enter the workforce, remember: you are not merely joining the health system, but shaping its future. Every life you touch, every community you serve, and each patient you comfort is a direct contribution to the Kenya we are building together,” he said.

The event was attended by Health and Professional Standards PS Mary Muthoni, KMTC Board Chair Joseah Cheruiyot, CEO Kelly Oluoch, and other dignitaries.