Kisumu National Polytechnic has been closed indefinitely following a week-long student protest. The closure was announced on Friday, September 19, 2025, in a memo signed by Chief Principal Cathrine Kelonye. The decision comes after students continued boycotting classes over unresolved grievances.
According to the memo, the Interim Council of the Polytechnic resolved to close the institution with immediate effect. All students have been asked to stay away from the campus until further notice. Chief Principal Kelonye urged learners to maintain peace during this period.
Reasons Behind the Protests
The students’ demonstrations started on September 15 and escalated quickly. They protested against a recent tuition fee hike, which they described as exploitative.
Learners also raised concerns over mistreatment by school authorities. Another major issue was the delay in releasing attachment forms, which students say threatens their academic progress.
The protests intensified on Tuesday, September 16, leading to clashes with police officers who were deployed to maintain order.
School Management Response
Chief Principal Kelonye expressed regret over the situation. She assured students, parents, and guardians that the Polytechnic will investigate all concerns raised by learners.
“The Council affirms that the inconvenient circumstances are highly regrettable and wishes to assure all affected trainees, parents, and guardians that the concerns raised will be investigated,” she said.
Despite the closure, all staff members are expected to continue with their routine duties unless advised otherwise.
Next Steps
During the protests, students also called on the Kisumu County Government and the Ministry of Education to intervene.
The Polytechnic administration has promised to communicate further details on the reopening date after addressing the students’ concerns. Stakeholders are now awaiting solutions to the issues raised by learners.
