High cost of living is foreign students’ biggest concern - survey reveals

University students from foreign countries, who are living in Kenya are finding life unbearable due to the high cost of living.

But, Kenya still remains their preferred choice within East and Central Africa region.

This is according to a survey that was released recently. Among other challenges contained in the latest survey focusing on international students, include difficulties getting and extending visas, lack of dedicated desks to attend to foreign students, poor accommodation facilities, limited freedom of movement, language barriers, discrimination and surprisingly, erratic climate.

Uganda is leading with the number of students who come here to study at 19.9 per cent followed by South Sudan at 19.2 per cent, Tanzania at 18.8 per cent, and Somalia at 18 per cent.

Other countries within the region account for 20 percent according to the research by CPS Research International.

“Most of the international students (over 40 per cent) prefer Kenyan universities due to high quality of education compared to what is offered at home and their reputation globally,” says the research.

Most foreign students like Strathmore University with their satisfaction level recorded at 65.05 per cent followed by University of Nairobi (63.05 per cent), Kenyatta University (62.05 per cent) Aga Khan University (57.05 per cent), Mount Kenya University (57.05 per cent) United States International University (54.05 per cent), Jomo Kenyatta University (51.85per cent), Egerton University (50.35 per cent), African Nazarene University (50.05 per cent) with Moi University closing the top ten with 44.05 percent.

In order to attract more foreign learners, CPS Research International urges government to upgrade the outlook of public institutions.

The study targeting international university students and university administrators across 71 universities was conducted between January and February 2021.