Editor's Review

"Beware of misinformation, disinformation and innuendo. Stay vigilant, verify sources, and let us share responsibly," HELB. 

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has come out clean following reports that it has halted the disbursement of student loans until further notice. 

In a statement released late Wednesday, January 10, HELB dismissed the reports as fake and misleading to the public.

The board warned Kenyans to be vigilant and avoid falling victim to such misleading information intended to trigger panic.

"Beware of misinformation, disinformation and innuendo. Stay vigilant, verify sources, and let us share responsibly," HELB stated.

The Higher Education Loans Board was compelled to act after a letter purporting to announce the halting of funding went viral on various social media platforms.

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu during the release of 2023 KCSE results. PHOTO | COURTESY

It indicated that the Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu had issued the statement allowing the halting of the loan disbursement process.

The faked letter also advised parents to seek alternative funding for higher learning since HELB was struggling financially.

"I hereby inform all loan applicants of the HELB Funding Program that the disbursing process will be put on hold until further notice," read part of the flagged letter.

"Kindly consult with all your sponsors, parents, and guardians on other fee alternatives," it added.

However, HELB flagged it as fake allaying fears of school postponement due to lack of funding among various beneficiaries.