The government has released an updated list of rogue universities and colleges operating illegally in Kenya, warning parents, students, and employers against enrolling in or recognising qualifications from unaccredited institutions.
In a notice dated Tuesday, January 20, the Commission for University Education (CUE) published a list of institutions that are not authorised to offer university education under the Universities Act. The commission cautioned that operating as a university or awarding degrees without CUE approval is unlawful, and any qualifications obtained from such institutions will not be recognised in Kenya.
According to CUE, 16 institutions are currently operating as universities without authorisation. The commission also released a separate list of 20 unlawful student recruitment agencies operating across the country.
Institutions Unauthorised to Offer University Education
- Eldoret Bible College – Uasin Gishu County
- Al-Munawwarah College – Mombasa County
- Grace Life Bible College – Vihiga County
- Africa Theological Seminary – Trans-Nzoia County
- Regions Beyond Ministry Bible College – Kiambu County
- Baraton College – Nandi County
- The Africa Talent University – Kisumu County
- Breakthrough Bible College – Nairobi County
- Theophilus Theological College – Kiambu County
- Northwestern Christian University – Kakamega County
- Logos University – Kakamega County
- Harvest Land University – Kisumu County
- Word of Faith Bible College – Vihiga County
- Kenya Anglican University – Embu County
- The East African University – Nyeri County
- Dominion Mission Theological University – Global
CUE noted that some of the listed institutions present themselves as international or faith-based universities, yet lack the legal authority to operate or confer academic degrees.
Warning to Students and Parents
The commission urged students and parents to verify the accreditation status of institutions before applying for admission, warning that many learners lose both time and money after enrolling in unrecognised institutions.
“For the avoidance of doubt, any institution operating as a university or degree-awarding body and which does not appear on the Commission for University Education list of approved institutions is unlawful,” CUE stated.
CUE added that information on accredited universities, approved academic programmes, and recognition of degree qualifications is available on its official website, cue.or.ke.
Members of the public were also encouraged to report suspicious institutions directly to the commission, with CUE assuring that all information shared will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Approved Universities Still in Place
At the same time, CUE published an updated list of approved public and private universities and colleges, including well-established institutions such as the University of Nairobi, Kenyatta University, and Moi University.
The latest move comes amid growing concerns over fake universities, questionable online degrees, and unrecognised qualifications increasingly flooding the job market.
CUE reaffirmed its commitment to cracking down on unlawful institutions to protect the integrity of Kenya’s higher education system and safeguard students’ academic and professional futures.
