The Commission on Administrative Justice (Office of the Ombudsman) has put the State Department for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) on notice, demanding a response within seven days over complaints lodged by students at the Kenya School of TVET regarding its controversial relocation plan.
The complaints arise from a directive issued on April 3, 2026, requiring students from the September 2025 intake, mainly in the Departments of Agriculture and Environmental Studies, and Health and Applied Sciences, to move from the Nairobi Main Campus to the Moiben Campus in Uasin Gishu County.
The relocation is set to take effect in May, with a reporting date of May 11.
“The State Department for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) has been directed by the Office of the Ombudsman to respond within seven days to complaints raised by students at the Kenya School of TVET over a planned relocation from Nairobi to Uasin Gishu County,” said the CAJ in its statement.
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According to the complaints submitted to the Ombudsman, the short timeline has limited their ability to make essential academic, financial and logistical arrangements.
The matter is further compounded by the fact that the students are currently in Module III, the final phase of their training, and are preparing for examinations. They argue that moving campuses at such a critical point could interfere with their studies and negatively impact their performance.
Financial concerns have also been highlighted, with many students saying they had already committed to housing arrangements in Nairobi, including paying rent and deposits. The sudden transfer, they say, will result in additional and unexpected costs.
Students have protested the decision, arguing that it was made without prior consultation and communicated with insufficient notice.
Concerns have also been raised about the readiness of the Moiben Campus to accommodate the incoming students. Issues cited include the adequacy of infrastructure, availability of hostel space, and access to essential support services, raising questions about compliance with the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Act, 2013.
In its intervention, the Ombudsman has referenced constitutional provisions, including the right to education and the right to fair administrative action, noting that the apparent lack of consultation and short notice may not meet these standards.
The Commission has requested the Principal Secretary to clarify the rationale behind the relocation, outline any stakeholder engagement undertaken, and explain measures in place to protect students’ academic progress.
It has also sought details on the readiness of the Moiben Campus and steps being taken to cushion students from financial and logistical strain.
By Juma Ndigo
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