On Wednesday, June 5, 2024, Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Miyingo, the State Minister for Higher Education, announced the list of successful beneficiaries for the Academic Year 2023/24 Students’ Loan Scheme. The announcement was made at the Uganda Media Center.
A total of 1,196 students have been awarded loans under this scheme. This decision followed the evaluation of 1,921 loan applications. Of these applications, 640 were rejected due to ineligibility. The final selection represents 93.4% of the eligible applicants. This year’s process was delayed, initially expected to be announced by April 15, 2024, but was postponed.
Uganda’s Students’ Loan Scheme Application Details
This academic year saw a significant reduction in loan applications. The Board received 6,225 applications, a 50.4% increase from the previous year’s 3,089. Of these, 1,912 applicants were eligible, with 1,854 being male and 563 female. Financial support was provided to 1,100 applicants within a budget of UGX 5.2 Billion.
Affirmative action played a crucial role in the selection process. Female applicants and persons with disabilities were given a 7-point advantage. As a result, 23 persons with disabilities were selected for various programs in sciences and humanities. The final selection included 418 males (67%) and 207 females (33%).
Academic Levels in the recent Uganda’s Students’ Loan Scheme
The majority of the selected applicants are undergraduate degree students, comprising 83% of the total beneficiaries. The remaining 17% are undergraduate diploma students. The lower number of diploma recipients is attributed to delays in student admissions by the Joint Admissions Board.
Financial Challenges and Future Funding
The announcement highlighted the financial challenges faced by the Higher Education Students’ Financing Board (HESFB). Despite clearing arrears of Shs. 15 billion owed to universities, funding remains a critical issue. Hon. Dr. Miyingo acknowledged the need for increased funding and committed to seeking additional resources from the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, and Parliament.
Public Reaction Regarding Uganda’s Students’ Loan Scheme
The announcement sparked mixed reactions from the public. Some celebrated their success, while others expressed disappointment at not making the list. Concerns were also raised about budgetary constraints and corruption affecting the allocation of resources for education and health. See the full list of successful students here.
The release of the loan beneficiaries’ list marks a significant step in supporting higher education in Uganda. Despite the challenges, the HESFB remains committed to providing financial assistance to deserving students. Efforts to secure more funding and address public concerns continue as the Board works towards a more inclusive and well-funded educational future.