Nairobi: The financial pressures facing university students are becoming a major concern in Kenya, one that is seldom discussed openly. For many, the transition from full dependence on parents or guardians to managing personal finances for the first time comes with tough lessons in budgeting, planning, and sacrifice. As a result, a growing number of students across Kenyan universities are embracing side hustles to meet their daily needs, pay rent, or even cover tuition fees.
According to Kenya News Agency, students like 22-year-old Michelle Wambui, a fourth-year nursing student at Kabarak University, have found creative ways to supplement their income through small-scale entrepreneurship. Michelle sells clothes, cakes, and flowers, and currently, she sells cooked beans to fellow students. Despite earning roughly Sh200 a day, balancing schoolwork and business remains a challenge for her.
From the quiet hills of Bogotia in Baringo County, Collins Kipng'etich, a final-year student, has turned his passion for media into a steady income source. Collins takes photography and videography gigs during campus events and weddings, earning about Sh6,000 a week, enough to cover his rent, food, and part of his tuition. However, unpaid clients remain a challenge.
For 21-year-old Agnes Wairimu, financial struggles have directly affected her academic performance. To cope, she started making and selling beadwork to classmates and applied for a Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) loan, which has helped her pay part of her rent and school fees.
Meanwhile, Precious Morangi Mokaya, a 22-year-old from Kebirigo, Nyamira County, has mastered the art of balancing academics with entrepreneurship through hairdressing. Morangi juggles two-degree programs and earns up to Sh7,000 a week from her business. She saves at least Sh500 daily, emphasizing the importance of financial discipline.
HELB, a government agency, offers loans and scholarships to support students pursuing higher education in Kenya. However, not all students benefit equally from the new funding model introduced in May 2024, which expects students to seek scholarships, loans, and household contributions based on financial need.
Economist Dr. Symon Kiprop of Egerton University highlights that financial instability limits young people's ability to explore entrepreneurship. He recommends that universities introduce flexible work-study programs, provide affordable housing and meal plans, and set up mentorship initiatives.
Ultimately, Kenya's growing campus hustle culture is more than a survival mechanism. It is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and determination of the country's youth, who continue to pursue education while navigating financial hardship with entrepreneurial spirit.