UoN Law Students Sue Over Abrupt Shift from Online to Physical Exams
A group of 39 law students from the University of Nairobi (UoN) has filed a petition against the university over its sudden decision to shift examinations from virtual to in-person mode, citing disruption and lack of consideration for students’ diverse circumstances.
The petition, filed under a certificate of urgency at the Milimani Law Courts on April 18, 2025, was led by third-year law student Leonard Omondi Aluko. The students, enrolled in the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Module II Evening Programme at Parklands Campus, are protesting a university memo dated March 28, 2024. The memo announced that all undergraduate examinations would now be administered physically, beginning May 17—only 36 days from the announcement date.
The students argue that the short notice has caused turmoil, particularly for learners who joined the evening programme under the assurance of fully online learning. The suit highlights the plight of students balancing demanding careers and personal commitments both in Kenya and abroad.
One petitioner, Edward Njunguna Kagai, currently resides and works in Boston, Massachusetts. In his affidavit, he stated that UoN’s initial promise of online learning was what made it feasible for him to enroll in the programme. “The mode of learning was perfect for my situation. This decision now puts my studies at risk,” Kagai said.
Another student based in Somalia echoed similar concerns over accessibility and logistics. According to Aluko, the move could force many to either drop out or delay graduation significantly. “Some of us have already paid fees. Now we’re being forced to reconsider everything,” he said.
In defense of its decision, the university said the Faculty Academic Committee resolved to revert to physical exams for all undergraduate students to improve supervision and integrity in exam administration. However, postgraduate learners will continue with virtual exams, while the university plans for a gradual return to in-person assessments for foreign-based students.
Students have proposed several alternatives to the university, including allowing current evening programme cohorts to continue with online exams, issuing clear communication from top leadership on the rationale behind the change, and offering refunds, compensation, or credit transfers for affected students.
This legal showdown comes just months after UoN students protested the delay in HELB disbursements in February 2025, further fueling frustration over the university’s handling of student welfare.
As the case proceeds through the courts, it could set a precedent on how Kenyan universities handle transitions in academic delivery for remote and international learners.
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UoN Law Students Sue Over Abrupt Shift from Online to Physical Exams