Tension is mounting in technical colleges across the country as trainees raise alarm over steep tuition fee hikes, which they say is threatening their education.
On Saturday, June 21, student leaders under the TVET Students Association of Kenya (TVETSA) held a press briefing in Nairobi, warning that many learners are on the brink of dropping out.
TVETSA President Peter Kutosi said the increase in fees caught students off guard, as it was never officially communicated.
“These changes were implemented without adequate notice, leaving students especially those from low-income families struggling,” Kutosi explained. He further added that some students have been unable to register for exams due to the fees, while parents remain overwhelmed by the high cost of living.
Recently, protests erupted in several TVET institutions as students expressed outrage over what they termed unbearable hikes in fees. Last week, Meru National Polytechnic was shut down indefinitely after a two-day student unrest.
Learners there, blocked roads and disrupted nearby businesses following a fee increment from Sh56, 420 to Sh67,189 a move defended by the principal Mutembei Kigige as necessary due to the rollout of the new Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) curriculum.
The students also cited delays in the disbursement of HELB loans and capitation funds as another obstacle, especially for those who depend on this support. TVETSA Secretary General Carlos Mogire pointed to a communication gap and mutual understanding between student leaders, institution heads, and the Ministry of Education, following their failed attempts for dialogue.
“We’re not involved in the decisions that affect us. This is why we feel left behind,” Mogire said, warning that continued silence from authorities could lead to peaceful demonstrations. Mogire also called for structured platform for student representation
The students are now urging the Ministry to develop a standardized fee policy to ensure affordability across all institutions. They are also pushing for timely disbursement of HELB funds in line with academic calendars to prevent unnecessary interruptions and introduce more transparent institutional practices.
TVETSA leaders further called for stronger representation of students in national education forums that impact education policy and more regular dialogue between learners and administrators.
“We are reminding them to listen to us,” said TVETSA Speaker Levy Kyama, who appealed for calm as the leadership plans the next steps.
By Masaki Enock
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