In a major setback for Kenya’s higher education sector, five universities and nine colleges have been banned from offering Nutrition and Dietetics courses by the national accrediting body.
The ban, announced this week, has raised concerns among students, faculty, and professionals in the field, sparking debates on the future of nutrition education and its impact on public health.
The decision follows evaluations by the accrediting body, which found that the affected institutions failed to meet essential academic standards.
Issues such as inadequate curriculum, poorly equipped laboratories, and insufficient qualified staff were identified as key reasons behind the suspension.
The universities affected include: Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Karatina University, Kenya Methodist University (KeMU) – Main Campus, and Lukenya University.
These institutions, which had been offering degrees in Nutrition and Dietetics, now face challenges in maintaining their accreditation.
Several colleges offering unapproved certificate and diploma courses in the field were also flagged.
These include Jodan College of Technology, JFC Munene College of Health Sciences, Kenya School for Integrated Medicine, Kenya Institute of Development Studies (KIDS),
Laisamis Technical and Vocational College, Meru National Polytechnic, Northeastern National Polytechnic (NENAP), Sang’alo National Polytechnic, and Thika School of Medical and Health Sciences (Kisumu, Mombasa, and Kitui campuses).
Furthermore, Meru University of Science and Technology’s degree programs and Edinburgh College’s certificate and diploma courses have been closed.
Jordan Hospital Medical College and the Kenya Institute of Social Works and Development have also had their courses suspended.
The immediate impact is being felt by both current and prospective students.
Those already enrolled face uncertainty, while incoming students are left with fewer options.
Many students have expressed frustration, particularly as the academic year is about to begin.
Experts argue that quality nutrition education is crucial in addressing global health issues such as obesity and malnutrition.
The accrediting body is working with the affected institutions to resolve the issues, with institutions being allowed to appeal or apply for re-accreditation once they meet the required standards.
