Wamuzi News Ke
The Health Ministry has suspended Dr. Lister Onsongo, Chief Executive Officer of the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK), following revelations that 42 undergraduate nursing students were placed into internship roles without completing their academic programmes—a clear breach of statutory regulations.
Internships Issued Illegally.
Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale revealed that at least 42 Bachelor of Science nursing students from ten universities had been fast‑tracked into internships before meeting graduation requirements—violating both the Nursing Council Act and Public Service Commission rules.
Their posting letters have been revoked, and they’ve been ordered to leave their duty stations immediately .
Audit Launched, CEO Suspended.
Dr. Onsongo’s suspension is pending the outcome of an internal audit covering all 2,098 nursing interns in the 2025/2026 cohort. Ann Mukuna, NCK’s Director of Standards and Compliance, has been appointed acting CEO during the probe . The Health Ministry has vowed to hold all professionals and institutions involved fully accountable.
Rebellion Sparks After Earlier Alarms.
This dramatic action follows an earlier audit of internship placements that uncovered 19 nursing students who were sent letters despite not completing their academic requirements. Following the full review directive, dual efforts are now underway to scan the entire list for similar irregularities .
Stakes Are High.
Internship positions are among the most sought-after in Kenya’s medical training system. With intern nurses projected to earn up to KSh 208,000 monthly, improperly granted internships not only undermine academic integrity but also favor undeserving individuals, displacing qualified graduates.
Integrity Under the Microscope.
CS Duale emphasized that this crackdown is essential for preserving the credibility of healthcare training and safeguarding public welfare. The audit’s scope is national, and the Ministry is prepared to act decisively on any infractions, whether in universities or government ranks .
