TVETA Cracks Down on Institutions Issuing Fake Certificates in Kenya

The Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) has warned the public about institutions giving out certificates that are not officially recognised.

In a notice dated Tuesday, March 10, 2026, TVETA explained that, according to Section 17(3) of the TVET Act, no institution can offer programs or issue qualifications without approval from the authority.

The notice also made it clear that certificates from unlicensed institutions are not recognised in Kenya.

The authority noted an increase in institutions operating without legal mandate, misleading students and the public by awarding so-called “internal certificates” that carry no official value for employment, further education, licensing, or career progression.

“The Authority’s attention has been drawn to an increased number of training institutions without legal mandate to award certificates, duping the public by awarding internal certificates,” read part of the notice.

TVETA Issues Warning on Institutions Issuing Unaccredited Certificates

TVETA clarified that only Recognised Qualification Awarding Bodies (QABs), institutions legally established or authorised by law, can conduct assessments and award certificates in compliance with the Kenya National Qualifications Framework (KNQF).

The notice further highlighted that from 2013 to date, no private TVET institution has been accredited as a QAB with the legal mandate to award recognised certificates.

For a certificate to be officially recognised, the issuing institution must have legal authorisation, the programme must be approved by TVETA, and the recipient must meet the minimum entry requirements.

The Authority warned that certificates or qualifications issued outside these requirements are considered internal and have no official recognition.

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TVETA urged students, parents, guardians, employers, and other stakeholders to exercise due diligence when enrolling in courses or paying fees for certification. The authority also advised verifying the legal status of any institution or awarding body through the official TVETA website at www.tveta.go.ke.

The Authority warned That Institutions found to be misrepresenting their legal status or issuing unaccredited certificates will face regulatory and legal action in accordance with Kenyan law.

The authority stressed that this advisory is issued in the interest of public protection, aiming to safeguard the integrity of technical and vocational education in Kenya.

For further information, the Authority urged members of the public to visit TVETA’s website or contact them via email at info@tveta.go.ke.

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About the Authority

The Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) is a State Corporation under the Ministry of Education, established under the TVET Act, Cap 210A.

It regulates technical and vocational education and training institutions in Kenya, ensuring that programs meet national standards.

TVETA is responsible for accrediting institutions, approving training programs, and overseeing the awarding of recognised certificates and qualifications.

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Photo of Education CS Julius Ogamba. PHOTO/MoE