Kenya’s vocational training regulator has taken decisive action against the Kenya Institute of Management (KIM), stripping it of accreditation and directing the immediate shutdown of all its campuses nationwide over compliance breaches.
The Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA), in a public notice issued from its Nairobi headquarters on April 20, cited the institution for offering and awarding academic and professional programmes without the requisite approval.
“It has come to the attention of the Authority that the Kenya Institute of Management (KIM) is offering and awarding various academic and professional programmes to members of the public without accreditation,” TVETA stated.
As a result, the regulator declared that any certificates issued by KIM after 2018 are invalid and cannot be used for employment, further studies, or professional advancement.
TVETA explained that KIM was only authorised to offer programmes assessed and certified by the TVET Curriculum Development, Assessment and Certification Council (TVET-CDACC). However, the institution exceeded its mandate by introducing unapproved courses and engaging trainers who lacked valid licences, contrary to the provisions of the TVET Act Cap 210A.
According to the authority, KIM violated Section 17(3) of the law by offering programmes that had not been approved by the TVETA Board, and further breached Section 23(1) by employing unlicensed trainers across its operations.
The regulator emphasised that KIM currently lacks the legal authority to issue recognised qualifications, warning the public against relying on its certifications.
“Consequently, any certificates, diplomas, or other qualifications obtained from the institution beyond 2018 are not recognised for purposes of employment, further education, or professional advancement,” the notice added.
The directive affects all 13 KIM campuses across the country, leaving enrolled students in uncertainty. TVETA has advised affected learners to seek guidance from the regulator and consider transferring to accredited institutions, where transition support may be available.
The authority further urged the public to exercise due diligence when selecting training institutions, stressing the importance of verifying accreditation status before enrolling in any programme.