University students today blocked University Way in Nairobi to protest delayed disbursement of student loans by the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB).
The demonstrations, which began on a peaceful note, eventually degenerated into a standoff with the police when the students attempted force their way into the HELB offices at the Anniversary Towers building along University Way.
Police had to teargas the students to disperse them. The students retaliated consequently by throwing stones at the security officers.
On Tuesday, through the Kenya Universities Students Association chairman Babu Owino, university students issued a strike notice demanding release of the funds by Friday.
“We expect the whole amount issued. Releasing part of the money will only make the problem worse,” Babu said while addressing the press during the demonstrations.
Babu also said that he had boycotted a meeting last Saturday with National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich and Education PS Belio Kipsang to discuss the issue.
However, Kenyatta University Students Association president Felix Lone who attended the meeting said they agreed that the disbursements be made before the end of the week. He also said that the disbursed amount will be lower than usual.
Other demonstrations by public university students took place in Mombasa, with several students being arrested by the police.
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