RCTI Expands Access to Student Loans Through Partnership with HELB

By Wendy Keziah,

Students pursuing diverse academic programmes at the Regional Centre Training Institute (RCTI) are set to benefit from improved access to education financing following the signing of a partnership agreement between RCTI and the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB).

The agreement, signed on Friday at the RCMRD headquarters in Nairobi, marks a significant step towards easing financial barriers that have often prevented many learners from enrolling in or completing their studies.

Under the arrangement, eligible students at RCTI will now be able to access HELB loans, enabling them to pursue studies across various academic programmes without financial barriers.

he signing ceremony brought together officials from both institutions and was led by RCMRD Director General Dr. Emmanuel Nkurunziza and HELB Chief Executive Officer Geoffrey Monari.

Speaking during the event, Mr. Monari welcomed the collaboration, describing it as an important addition to HELB’s growing network of partnerships aimed at supporting students across the country.

“We are pleased to work with RCTI in expanding access to financing for learners pursuing technical and professional training. This partnership strengthens our efforts to ensure that deserving students are not locked out of education because of financial constraints,” he stated.

Mr. Monari added that the agreement aligns with government initiatives to strengthen student support systems within institutions of higher learning and equip young people with the skills required in today’s job market.

Dr. Nkurunziza noted that the partnership reflects RCTI’s commitment to making quality training more accessible to students seeking practical and industry-oriented skills.
“Access to education financing remains one of the key factors that determine whether a student can complete their studies. Through this collaboration, we are creating opportunities for more learners to acquire skills that are relevant to the needs of industry and development,” he remarked.

Officials from both institutions expressed confidence that the initiative will help increase enrolment, improve completion rates, and contribute to the development of a skilled workforce capable of supporting economic growth across the region.

RCTI offers a range of practical, hands-on training programmes designed to prepare students for careers in geospatial sciences, Business, ICT, Environmental Technology, Disaster Management, and other technical fields. The new financing arrangement is expected to widen participation in these programmes while enabling students to focus on their studies.

The partnership also supports broader efforts to promote skills development, enhance employability, and prepare young people for opportunities in an increasingly competitive labor market.