The Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK) has issued a warning to the public about enrolling in nursing programs provided by institutions that lack official recognition, including one college currently offering an unaccredited course.

In a statement released on April 18, the Council emphasized that it is the only body mandated to oversee the regulation of nursing and midwifery education and training institutions across the country.

The council further stated that any nursing program not approved by NCK is considered invalid and fails to meet the necessary standards for proper training and professional conduct.

Consequently, the NCK singled out the African International Technical College, accusing it of promoting and running a nursing-related course without obtaining the council’s authorization.

"The Council wishes to draw your attention to Section 21 of the Nurses and Midwives Act CAP 257 Laws of Kenya, which stipulates that, any person conducting nursing training courses without Council approval, upon conviction, is guilty of an offence and liable to a fine not exceeding five hundred thousand shillings (Ksh.500,000), or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years, or both," said NCK.

Additionally, the council informed the public that it does not recognize training programs such as Nurse Aid, Nursing Assistant, and Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA).

The NCK also clarified that it bears no liability for any loss or damage—whether in contract, tort, or otherwise—arising from the use or inability to use the information in the warning, or from actions or decisions made based on it.

"The Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK) remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards in nursing and midwifery education and professional practice," the statement concluded.

The council advised prospective students and their guardians to exercise caution and ensure that any institution they consider is properly accredited before enrolling in nursing or midwifery courses.

As of now, the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK) has accredited 145 institutions to offer nursing and midwifery training at degree level, as well as at basic and post-basic diploma levels across various specialties.

The council has also developed national standards and an education policy to guide nursing and midwifery training, ensuring that programs consistently produce safe and competent professionals in the field.

"We are responsible for the accreditation of nursing and midwifery programs. Any institution wishing to offer such training for the purpose of awarding certificates, diplomas, or degrees must first obtain approval from the Nursing Council of Kenya," reads part of the NCK website.

Before a new program receives official recognition, NCK carries out an assessment visit to evaluate whether the institution is adequately prepared to admit students.

Once accredited, institutions must apply for renewal every five years, after which NCK conducts a follow-up evaluation to confirm continued compliance with set standards.