The Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury, John Mbadi Speaking at a press briefing at the National Treasury Building on December 18, 2025. Photo Courtesy. 
By Ryan Mumo.
The Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury, John Mbadi, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to integrating students and young people into national economic decision-making, describing them as “critical stakeholders” in Kenya’s fiscal future.
Speaking at a press briefing at the National Treasury Building this afternoon, Mbadi highlighted the recent launch of the National Students Budget Forum as a major step towards a more inclusive and participatory budget process.
The forum, unveiled last week at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies for the FY 2026/27 budget cycle, provides a structured platform for students to engage directly in fiscal policy discussions.
“Our economy’s future belongs to the young people of this country. Their voices must be heard not as an afterthought, but as an integral part of our fiscal planning and policy choices,” the CS said.
Mbadi also announced plans for a nationwide engagement programme early next year, covering eight regions. Through these engagements, he will meet students and youth directly to discuss budget priorities and broader economic issues, ensuring their perspectives are systematically incorporated into the budget formulation process.
During the briefing, the CS received a report from student leaders representing universities across Kenya. The report highlighted key concerns and proposals from students, including timely disbursement of Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funds and issues affecting capitation grants.
In addition to focusing on student participation, Mbadi addressed broader economic priorities, outlining ongoing government efforts to strengthen fiscal discipline, support economic growth, and safeguard sustainable public finances.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to transparency, prudent economic management, and reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy while advancing long-term development goals.
The National Students Budget Forum is part of a broader initiative to institutionalise youth perspectives in economic planning, anchoring student participation within the formal budget cycle and reinforcing the government’s vision of inclusive governance.
