The Ministry of Health, (MoH) has moved decisively to revoke the internship placements of 42 Bachelor of Science (BSc) Nursing students, revealing a significant breach of regulations that has cast a shadow over professional training within the healthcare sector.
The decision, announced in a press statement dated July 21, 2025, comes after the MoH uncovered what it described as a “serious breach of regulations” involving the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK) and ten public and private universities.
These institutions are accused of unlawfully submitting students for internships before they had completed their academic programmes, directly contravening the Nursing Council Act and guidelines from the Public Service Commission (PSC).
The immediate effect of this revelation saw the affected students instructed to vacate their duty stations as comprehensive investigations commence.
The Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, underscored the gravity of the situation.
“This action is in direct contravention of the Nursing Council Act and the guidelines approved by the Public Service Commission (PSC).” Duale stated.
ALSO READ:
Duale further emphasised the MoH’s unwavering commitment to rectifying the anomaly and upholding the integrity of the nation’s healthcare education system.
In response to the scandal, MoH has not hesitated to implement stringent measures. Dr. Lister Onsongo, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nursing Council of Kenya, has been suspended, pending the outcome of a comprehensive internal audit set to scrutinize the entire cohort of 2,098 BSc Nursing interns.
Ann Mukuna, Director Standards and Compliance, has been appointed to oversee the Council’s operations in the interim. The Ministry’s resolve was clearly articulated by the Cabinet Secretary.
“All individuals found culpable; whether at the MoH, the NCK, or within the leadership of the implicated universities; will be held fully accountable.” He reaffirmed.
ALSO READ:
Students sent home after fire destroys dormitories at Tarach Secondary in Turkana
This robust stance signals a clear intent to ensure that the standards of nursing education and professional deployment are not compromised.
The ongoing investigations are poised to delve deep into the circumstances that led to these irregular placements, with a strong focus on safeguarding the future of nursing professionals and public trust in the healthcare system.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to transparent processes.
“This matter is being treated with the utmost urgency to safeguard professional standards, ensure compliance with statutory requirements, and protect the rights of nursing graduates and the public.” Duale concluded
By Cornelius Korir
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
