Nominated MP Sabina Chege has questioned whether university programmes in Kenya are equipping graduates for the job market, saying holders of degrees and master’s qualifications are still unable to find work.

Chege wants higher education institutions to shift towards market-driven courses. She made the remarks during a television interview on Thursday, 22 October 2026, according to a report.

Her comments come two days after President William Ruto proposed raising the monthly PAYE exemption threshold from Ksh30,000 to Ksh32,333. Ruto announced the plan on 20 October during the 63rd Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Uasin Gishu County.

The President directed the National Treasury to table the necessary proposals in Parliament this week. The change, if approved, would bring more salaried workers within the tax-exempt bracket.

The government had previously set the exemption threshold at Ksh30,000 in May 2026. That figure still applies, since the new proposal has not taken effect. Until Parliament completes the legislative process and administrative procedures are finished, employees continue to be taxed under the existing progressive income tax bands.

Eligible workers currently receive personal relief of Ksh2,400 per month, which reduces the tax they owe.

It is not clear from the available information whether Chege’s interview took place before or after Ruto’s announcement. Her remarks did not address the PAYE proposal directly.

The Treasury’s submissions to Parliament will determine whether the Ksh32,333 threshold is adopted. Until then, the Ksh30,000 exemption and the current band structure remain in force.