A Student's Guide to Staying Connected on a Budget

Group projects, calls home, job applications: student life runs on staying connected. But when money is tight, airtime can vanish fast. The good news is that a few smart habits, plus an easy way to top up, keep you reachable without stretching your budget.

1. Set a weekly airtime budget

Decide how much you can comfortably spend each week and stick to it. Small, regular top-ups are easier to manage than one big purchase you might spend too quickly.

2. Start small: top-ups from KSh 10

You don't need a big amount to stay in touch. Teke Basic covers everyday top-ups from KSh 10 to KSh 1,999, perfect for small, quick purchases when you need them.

3. Buy through *831# for the bonus

Dial *831# and buy airtime free of charge on any major network. You'll also get 2% bonus airtime. It adds up over a semester. See the numbers in The 2% Bonus Explained.

4. Top up before you need it

• Before exam week, so you can reach classmates and lecturers.
• Before job interviews or applications that need a call back.
• Before travelling home, so family can reach you.

5. Use your time wisely

Keep calls short and purposeful, and use messages for updates. Save longer catch-ups for when you have a comfortable balance.

6. Keep your top-up routine simple

No queues, no walking to an agent: with TekeTeke you can buy airtime from your room, the library or between lectures. Save *831# in your contacts as "Airtime", and you're one tap from a top-up.

Ready to start? Follow our step-by-step guide to *831#.