The Government of the Republic of Uganda through the Higher Education Students Financing Board (HESFB) under the Ministry of Education and Sports has opened applications for this years’ study loan scheme.
The HESFB spokesperson, Mr. Bob Nuwagira said that due to budget cuts, the scheme will target only 1000 students for this years’ intake.
‘’The board asked for UGX 38.4 Billion but received only UGX 27.5 Billion, due to this, the board will sponsor only 1000 students for this academic year. Since we do not have any candidates this year, it is a great opportunity for those who applied and did not go through. We are taking learners who sat for exams 10 years ago and I am sure the competition will not be stiff this time. The students’ loan shall cover tuition fees and functional fees. The loan shall also cover aids and appliances for persons with disabilities, while research funds may be covered as and when budget allows,’’ he told journalists.
The loan scheme targets students undertaking or admitted under Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) related courses. However, the board will award loans to Arts students in the next academic year, beginning with those pursuing tourism and hospitality management courses.
An Act of Parliament created HESFB in 2014 to provide loans to students who want to enroll in recognized courses at higher education institutions but are unable to sustain themselves financially with hopes of paying back the loans after their study period.
For the last 8 years, 12,780 students have so far been supported by the Board.
Access the application forms and entire application process from the HESFB official website in the link below
