Kenya’s university students have officially submitted their proposals for the FY2026/27 national budget, marking a significant shift in how young people are influencing public finance decisions. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi confirmed that the government has formally received budget input from university students drawn from institutions across the country.
In a statement shared on x date 19/12/2025 publicly, Mbadi emphasized that the youth — who form the largest segment of Kenya’s population — can no longer afford to remain passive observers in national budget-making processes. Instead, he stressed, young people must be treated as key stakeholders whose views and priorities genuinely matter when shaping fiscal policy.
According to the CS, education financing emerged as the top priority in the submissions presented by university students. The students reportedly raised concerns over rising tuition fees, inadequate funding for public universities, delayed disbursement of loans and scholarships, and the long-term sustainability of higher education institutions.
Mbadi noted that the submissions reflect growing awareness among young Kenyans about how government budgets directly affect their future. He described the engagement as a positive step toward participatory governance, where citizens — especially the youth — actively shape policies rather than reacting to them after implementation.
The Treasury boss also indicated that incorporating youth perspectives is critical for building inclusive economic policies, particularly at a time when unemployment, student debt, and underfunded education systems continue to challenge the country.
The move has been widely welcomed by education stakeholders, with analysts saying it could influence future budget allocations toward universities, student loan schemes, and skills development programs. As preparations for the FY2026/27 budget continue, all eyes will now be on whether student-driven proposals translate into tangible funding increases for education.
The engagement signals a growing recognition that Kenya’s youth are not just future leaders — but present-day contributors to national decision-making.
