Higher Education Loans Board

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Overview

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contactcentre@helb.co.ke

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) was established in 1995 under the Higher Education Loans Board Act, Chapter 213A of the Laws of Kenya. It is responsible for providing financial assistance to Kenyan students in accredited public and private higher education institutions. The board disburses loans, bursaries, and scholarships to
support students’ education. Additionally, HELB manages the recovery of loans from graduates, ensuring sustainable funding for future students. It plays a crucial role in promoting access to higher education and contributing to the development of human capital in Kenya.

CEO: FCPA Charles Ringera

Charles M. Ringera, the CEO of the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), holds a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor’s in
Economics. With vast experience in public financial management, he has held leadership roles in various institutions, driving sustainable development in education funding.

Management Team

FCPA Charles Ringera

CEO

CPA Mary Wachira Muchee

Chief Strategy And Customer Experience Officer

Josphat Nzuki

Chief Innovation & Technology Officer

Bernadette N.Masinde

Head Of Legal Services & Corporation Secretary

CHRP Zipporah Onyoni

Head Of Human Resource & Administration

Justus Mwangi

Head Of Internal Audit, Risk Management And Compliance

CPA James Maina Gachari

Fund Manager, External Resources

CPA Kerin Lidoroh

Manager, Finance

Joseph Ndegwa

Manager, Lending

Elijah W. Wekesa

Manager, Procurement & Logistics

CPA Fritz C.N Achola

Head Of Debt Management

Shem Andrew Gichimu

Chief Finance Officer

Functions

  • Disbursement of Loans: HELB provides loans to Kenyan students pursuing higher education in accredited public and private universities, as well as other institutions. These loans are aimed at assisting students with tuition fees and other educational expenses.
  • Bursaries and Scholarships: In addition to loans, HELB administers bursaries and scholarships to deserving students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent access to education.
  • Loan Recovery: HELB is responsible for recovering loans issued to graduates after they complete their studies. This process ensures that the funds are recycled to benefit future students, contributing to the sustainability of the loan scheme.
  • Financial Aid Advisory: HELB advises the government on matters related to financial aid for students in higher education, recommending policies, strategies, and measures to improve access and equity in financing education.
  • Student Support: HELB focuses on providing financial support to students from low-income backgrounds, aiming to reduce the financial burden that may prevent them from completing their education.
  • Loan Administration: HELB sets the terms, conditions, and repayment schedules for student loans. It ensures proper management of the loans, including monitoring disbursements, disbursing loans according to set guidelines, and ensuring that students adhere to loan agreements.
  • Partnerships and Collaborations: HELB collaborates with government agencies, higher education institutions, and other stakeholders to improve the availability and accessibility of student financial aid and to ensure that the funding system is efficient and equitable.
  • Capacity Building and Training: HELB invests in building the capacity of its staff and stakeholders to enhance loan administration, recovery mechanisms, and overall service delivery. This includes training on modern systems for managing student loans and financial assistance programs.
  • Promotion of Access to Higher Education: HELB’s role is integral in enhancing access to higher education for all Kenyans, ensuring that even students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds have the financial support needed to pursue their academic goals.
  • Research and Development: HELB engages in research on financing higher education, analyzing trends in student loan uptake, repayment rates, and financing needs. The board uses this data to inform policy, improve its operations, and design innovative funding solutions for students.

Important Links

Address & Contacts

  • Anniversary Towers, 19th Floor
  • P.O Box 69489-00400 Nairobi, Kenya
  • contactcentre@helb.co.ke
  • +254711052000