Students at Laikipia University are raising alarm over what they describe as a troubling pattern of being deliberately failed in certain course units, despite fully participating in coursework, assessments and examinations.
The issue has sparked growing frustration among learners, who say they are increasingly being subjected to financial and emotional strain as a result of these practices.
According to students, entire classes are sometimes awarded a failing grade, marked as “F” or “Supplementary” despite consistent attendance, submission of assignments, participation in Continuous Assessment Tests (CATs), and completion of final examinations.
The situation has raised serious questions about transparency and accountability in the grading process.
What makes the matter more concerning is the allegation that these widespread failures are not accidental or due to poor performance but rather part of a calculated scheme to force students into paying for retakes.
There are fears that some lecturers may be exploiting the grading system to generate additional revenue through supplementary exam fees, at the expense of students who are already struggling to keep up with the high cost of education.
This growing crisis is taking a toll not only on students’ finances but also on their mental and emotional well-being.
Many say the experience of being unjustly failed is demoralising and leaves them feeling powerless within a system that should support their academic growth.
Calls for accountability are growing louder, with students demanding that the university investigate grading practices and ensure that marks awarded reflect actual performance, not hidden financial motives.
They are urging the administration and regulatory bodies to act swiftly and decisively to restore fairness, integrity, and trust in the university’s academic processes.
The situation at Laikipia University reflects broader concerns about exploitation in higher education and the need for stronger oversight to protect students from systemic abuse.
Unless addressed, such practices risk undermining not only student welfare but also the credibility of the institution itself.
“Dear Cyprian Nyakundi. Kindly withhold my identity. I am a student at Laikipia University, and I would like you to highlight the challenges comrades are going through. There is a growing concern where students attend all lectures, sit for all Continuous Assessment Tests (CATs), and complete final exams—only to later find that the entire class has been awarded an “F” (Supplementary) grade. Shockingly, this seems to be a deliberate strategy aimed at forcing students to pay for retakes, all in an apparent attempt to line the pockets of certain lecturers. How is it that a whole unit can be marked as failed, yet students were registered and participated actively throughout the semester? We are pleading for accountability. Comrades are genuinely struggling emotionally, financially, and mentally to pursue this education. It is deeply disheartening to be failed intentionally for monetary gain. Please investigate and raise this matter. We are tired of being exploited in silence. Sincerely, A Concerned Laikipia University Student.”
