List of Worst Universities in Kenya

Last updated on January 30th, 2024 at 10:46 pm

This is a list of the worst universities in Kenya. Kenya prides itself on having some of the best universities in Africa, but unfortunately, not all institutions of higher learning in the country meet the required standards. In order to compile this list of the worst universities in Kenya, we considered a number of factors, including academic reputation, student satisfaction, graduate employability rates, and faculty qualifications. We also consulted with government reports, student surveys, and employer rankings

In no particular order, here is a list of the worst universities in Kenya

1. Mount Kenya University (MKU)

MKU is a private university with branches in different parts of the country. The university has been accused of offering substandard courses and employing unqualified lecturers. The institution has also been in the news for awarding degrees to students who did not meet the required academic qualifications. Mount Kenya University has been accused of offering substandard courses in business and education. In 2019, the university was fined by the Commission for University Education for failing to meet quality standards.

While Mount Kenya University has been criticized for offering substandard courses in business and education, MKU offers a diverse selection of academic programs across various disciplines, including business, education, health sciences, law, engineering, and information technology. This caters to a broad range of student interests and career aspirations.

2. Kisii University

Kisii University has had its fair share of controversies in recent years. The university has been accused of offering courses that are not accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE). The institution has also been accused of employing unqualified lecturers who do not have the relevant academic qualifications to teach at the university. Kisii University has been plagued by student protests in recent years, with students complaining about poor living conditions and inadequate teaching.

3. Great Lakes University of Kisumu (GLUK)

GLUK is a private university located in Kisumu County. The university has been accused of offering courses that do not meet the required standards. The institution has also been in the news for awarding degrees to students who did not meet the required academic qualifications. While Great Lakes University of Kisumu has been criticized for its low academic standards, the university does have a strong program in tourism and hospitality.

4. Kiriri Women’s University of Science and Technology

Kiriri Women’s University of Science and Technology is a private university that has been accused of offering substandard courses. Some online reviews mention concerns about strict rules and regulations, limited social activities, and challenges with accessing internship opportunities. It’s important to note that these are individual experiences and don’t necessarily reflect the overall student experience. KWUST is a private university, making tuition fees potentially higher compared to public universities. Access to financial aid options might also be limited. While Kiriri Women’s University of Science and Technology has been criticized for its low academic standards, KWUST has a strong alumni network of successful women leaders in various fields. This network provides students with career guidance, mentorship opportunities, and access to professional networks.

5. Pioneer International University

Pioneer International University is a private university located in Nairobi. The institution has been accused of offering courses that are not accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE). The university has also been in the news for employing unqualified lecturers who do not have the relevant academic qualifications to teach at the institution.

While the universities listed as “worst” might not all be completely unsuitable, they often raise concerns about quality, facilities, and educational experiences. Here’s how you, as a Kenyan student, can navigate your university search and avoid choosing these institutions:

Research, research, research!

Dig deeper: Don’t rely solely on rankings or negative headlines. Use official university websites, government reports, and student forums to gather detailed information about academic programs, faculty qualifications, campus facilities, and graduate employability rates.
Contact the university at: Reach out to admissions offices, current students, or alumni. Ask specific questions about your program of interest, class sizes, faculty expertise, and campus life.
Compare and contrast: Compile a list of your preferred universities, including some not on the “worst” list. Compare their offerings, strengths, and weaknesses carefully.

Choose your program wisely.

Align your passion with purpose. Don’t just chase popular programs. Analyze your skills, interests, and career goals. Choose a program that aligns with your aspirations and offers strong industry connections.
Look beyond rankings: A seemingly “low-ranked” program might be excellent in your chosen field. Research program-specific rankings and accreditation details.
Consider future prospects: Explore graduate employability rates for your program at different universities. Talk to alumni about their job trajectories after graduation.

Financial aid and other resources:

Plan your finances. Don’t rely solely on loans. Research scholarship opportunities, government grants, and work-study programs that can ease your financial burden.
Seek guidance: Utilize available resources like career counselors, educational advisors, and financial aid departments to navigate funding options and make informed decisions.
Consider alternatives: Explore community colleges, online programs, or vocational training courses as potential avenues for acquiring valuable skills and qualifications.

Additional resources to empower your decision:

Commission for University Education (CUE): The official regulatory body for universities in Kenya. Provides information on accredited institutions, student rights, and quality assurance processes.
Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Admission System (KUCCAS): Facilitates university admissions for Kenyan students. Offers resources like course catalogs, university rankings, and application guidance.
Higher Education Loans Board (HELB): Provides financial assistance to Kenyan students pursuing higher education. Offers information on loan eligibility, application procedures, and repayment options.
Student forums and communities: Connect with other students online or in person to share experiences, gather insights, and ask questions about different universities and programs.

Remember, this is your future. Don’t let a “worst” list dictate your university journey. Invest time in research, explore your options, and make informed decisions based on your individual needs and aspirations. Your future success can bloom even beyond the walls of traditional universities.