TVET PS Dr Esther Muoria at Meru National Polytechnic on August 4, 2026 . [Phares Mutembei, Standard]
A confrontation is brewing between the government and sections of the Christian community over plans to regularise theological training and introduce standards for pastors and other clergy.
The Church and Clergy Association of Kenya (CCAK) has rejected reforms, warning that State regulation of Bible schools could undermine freedom of worship and interfere with the Church’s mandate to train its ministers.
CCAK chairman Bishop Hudson Ndeda said the government should focus on challenges in the education sector, including reforms to the Competency-Based Education system and strengthening universities.
“The recent attempt by the government to sponsor and propagate the regulation of Bible schools through some MPs and a section of clergy targeting making money from the clergy is ill-advised,” Ndeda said.
He maintained that theological teaching should remain the responsibility of the Church, arguing that Bible schools are established by denominations to prepare pastors for ministry rather than provide academic qualifications.
“The ministry of education should concentrate on improving CBE curriculum and strengthening university education, which is currently at the brink of collapse, and leave theological teachings to the church,” he said.
The resistance comes as the State advances a reform agenda intended to improve quality assurance and bring order to theological education nationwide.