Kisumu National Polytechnic is facing a storm of protests from comradess who are calling for the immediate transfer of Principal Catherine Kelonye over alleged mismanagement and deteriorating academic standards. The controversy centers around irregularities in the registration process for the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) March exam series and other issues affecting the institution.
Students have expressed frustration over last-minute changes to the registration process. Registration, typically conducted in November, was announced via a circular issued in late December, when most students were already on holiday.
A follow-up circular in January limited the registration period to just seven days, a move students believe was calculated to reduce participation. Allegations have emerged that the administration is restricting the number of registrations to avoid negatively impacting the institution’s performance index.
Adding to the controversy, students are being required to pay capitation fees for registration, despite these costs being covered by the government. Previous exam series did not mandate these payments, further fueling suspicions of financial mismanagement.
Beyond academic concerns, students accuse the principal of fostering a toxic social environment. Claims have surfaced that she protects student leaders involved in recruiting others into questionable activities and targets those who oppose them. It is alleged that some students have faced arrest after criticizing these leaders, heightening fears of retaliation.
The students also cite broader issues of neglect, including teachers failing to attend classes and a lack of practical equipment despite fees being paid. Many believe the institution’s declining standards require urgent intervention, with one student stating, “We are tired of this woman. It’s high time she gets a transfer.”
The students are calling on the Ministry of Education and relevant authorities to investigate the issues and restore order at the polytechnic. As pressure mounts, it remains to be seen whether the administration will address these grievances or if external intervention will be necessary to resolve the crisis.