The Commission for University Education (CUE) has warned institutions operating without accreditation that they risk closure and legal action as the regulator intensifies efforts to protect the integrity of Kenya’s higher education system.
CUE Chief Executive Officer Prof. Mike Kuria said the commission has already identified 15 universities operating illegally in the country and is taking steps to ensure they either comply with regulations or face sanctions.
He said the commission will not tolerate institutions offering academic programmes without proper approval from the national regulator.
“We have had quite a number of cases of bogus universities. Actually, right now there are two cases that are pending in court because we have found them operating like that,” Prof. Kuria said.
“And we are telling them that we will not allow institutions to operate in this country without valid accreditation.”
The crackdown comes amid growing concerns about institutions offering degrees and certificates without meeting the required academic standards set by the commission.
Universities and colleges blacklisted
Among the universities flagged by CUE are Kenya Anglican University Kanyuambora in Embu, The East African University, Bredgate University and International University in Nyeri.
Others listed include Northwestern Christian University and Logos University in Kakamega, as well as Harvest Land University and Africa Talent University located in Kisumu County.
In addition to the universities, the commission has also de-listed several colleges found to be operating without proper approval.
These include Eldoret Bible College (Uasin Gishu), Al Munawarrah College (Mombasa), Grace of Life Bible College (Thika), African Theological Seminary (Kitale) and Regions Beyond Ministry Bible College (Thika).
Others are Baraton College in Kapsabet, Breakthrough Bible College, Theophillus Theological College and Word of Faith Bible College in Vihiga.
According to Prof. Kuria, the commission has already taken enforcement action against some institutions, including stopping graduation ceremonies for two universities found to be operating without accreditation.
Students urged to verify institutions
The CUE chief urged prospective students to take precaution before enrolling in universities or colleges by confirming the accreditation status of institutions and programmes through the commission’s official website.
He said many students risk losing years of study and financial resources if they enrol in institutions that are not recognised by the regulator.
“For the purposes of the citizens of this country, we are saying if you want to register for a programme in any institution, check whether that institution or programme appears on the CUE website,” Prof. Kuria said.
“If it doesn’t appear, do not register unless you get confirmation from us.”
New university receives interim authority
Prof. Kuria spoke in Nyeri during the handover of a Letter of Interim Authority to Outspan Global University, formerly known as Outspan Medical College.
The letter allows the institution to begin offering selected degree programmes while it continues working toward full accreditation.
With the approval, Outspan Global University becomes the 84th institution of higher learning in Kenya, and will initially offer degree programmes in Clinical Medicine and Community Health, Nursing and Psychology.
Focus on quality, not numbers
Responding to concerns that Kenya may be licensing too many universities, Prof. Kuria said the number of institutions is not the main issue, provided academic standards are maintained.
“Sometimes people raise the question of whether we are raising too many universities too fast,” he said.
“But the problem is not the numbers; the problem would be the quality. As long as the quality of education is up to scratch, we do not have a problem with numbers.”
He added that the commission will continue strengthening oversight to ensure universities maintain high academic standards and protect the credibility of Kenya’s higher education system.
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