The Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) has revoked the accreditation of the Kenya Institute of Management (KIM), ordering the immediate closure of all its campuses across the country in a significant move affecting one of the country’s long-standing training institutions.
In a notice published on Monday, TVETA stated that KIM had been operating outside the law, accusing it of offering and awarding academic and professional programs without accreditation.
The authority further stated that the institution also engaged trainers without valid training licenses.
The notice reads in part: “It has been established that KIM has continued to offer programs that are not approved and award academic qualifications.”
The public is notified that KIM does not have the legal mandate to award qualifications.
The directive takes effect immediately, bringing to a halt operations of an institution that has existed for over a decade and established a significant presence in professional and management training across Kenya.
Certificates Declared Invalid
In a sweeping declaration with far-reaching consequences for thousands of learners, TVETA warned that qualifications issued by KIM since 2018 will not be recognized.
The authority stated: “Any certificates, diplomas, or other qualifications obtained from the institution beyond 2018 are not recognized for purposes of employment, further education, or professional advancement.”
The regulator stated that the action was taken under Sections 36 and 37 of the TVET Act, emphasizing that all campuses have been closed with immediate effect.
Members of the public have also been cautioned against enrolling at the institution or seeking certification through it.
The notice warned: “Exercise caution and verify the accreditation status of any institution before enrolling.”
Shockwaves and Political Reaction
The move has sparked concern and outrage, with questions emerging over how the institution continued operating for years without enforcement action.
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, reacting via Facebook, wrote: “Ile makasiriko Iko hapa… what did KIM do or not do?”
This is likely to affect hundreds if not thousands of Kenyans who have academic certificates from the institution.
Another Facebook user stated: “This is devastating for young people who invested time and money in good faith.”
The government must explain how such an institution operated for years and what happens to affected learners.
Integrity of Training Under Scrutiny
TVETA maintained that the crackdown is part of efforts to safeguard the integrity and quality of training in Kenya, warning that it will continue taking action against institutions operating outside the legal framework.
The closure of KIM now raises urgent questions about regulatory oversight, student protection, and the credibility of qualifications in Kenya’s fast-growing technical and professional training sector.
The story is expected to develop further as investigations continue.