The Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) has warned the public about an increase in training institutions issuing certificates without legal authority.
In a notice issued on March 10, 2026, the authority said some institutions are misleading students by offering internal certificates that are not legally recognized.
TVETA stated that in Kenya, recognized certificates can only be issued by approved Qualification Awarding Bodies (QABs) that have legal authority granted through an Act of Parliament or other legal instruments such as legal notices or orders.
According to the authority, a Qualification Awarding Body must be established or clearly authorized by law to conduct assessments and award nationally recognized certificates and qualifications in line with the Kenya National Qualifications Framework (KNQF).
TVETA further clarified that under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Act (CAP 210A), no private TVET institution has been accredited as a Qualification Awarding Body with the legal mandate to assess and award nationally recognized certificates since 2013.
For a certificate to be recognized, TVETA said the institution issuing it must have legal authority, the programme must be approved by the training regulator, and the student must meet the minimum entry requirements for the course.
The authority advised trainees, parents, guardians, employers, and other stakeholders to be careful when choosing training institutions.
“The public is strongly advised to exercise due diligence and remain vigilant against institutions that claim to issue certificates or qualifications without a clear legal basis,” the notice said.
Members of the public have also been urged to confirm the legal status of any institution or awarding body before enrolling in a programme or paying any fees.
TVETA said the list of institutions with legal authority to assess and award academic certificates is available on its official website.
It warned that any institution found misrepresenting its legal status or issuing certificates without authority will face regulatory and legal action in accordance with the law.
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