HELB defends use of auctioneers to recover student loans

Debt collectors sliding into graduates’ phones set off a nationwide panic, forcing HELB to jump online and calm everyone down.

Viral debt message sparks uproar

• The Higher Education Loans Board faced heat after auctioneer claims surfaced.
• A borrower posted a scary repayment text on X on February 23.
• Screenshot showed a Ksh210,015.79 balance linked to Swipe Auctioneers.
• Post blew up fast, with Kenyans questioning harsher recovery moves.

HELB stands by recovery tactics

• The Higher Education Loans Board admitted using third-party collectors.
• Officials argued that loan repayment is a legal duty under a revolving fund model.
• Backlash pushed HELB to shift into a softer, motivational tone online.
• The board invited defaulters to negotiate repayment plans through direct messages.

Digital tools to avoid auctioneers

• USSD code 642# lets borrowers check balances and approve payments.
• The HELB Mobile App shows full statements and tracks payment history.
• Self-Service Portal offers desktop access for managing and clearing loans.
• Those platforms aim to help users stay clear of recovery escalation.