This archive report was first published on 19 November 2021.
Kenyan nurses who failed English language tests administered as a prerequisite for traveling to work in the UK will be given a second chance.
According to the Ministry of Labour, the disqualification of 644 candidates had delayed plans to send the first batch of nurses to the UK, where they are expected to work under the National Health Service (NHS).
Foreign nurses seeking to work in the UK are required to pass the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Occupational English Test (OET), as well as the Computer-Based Test (CBT).
Labour Principal Secretary Peter Tum said a total of 2,685 candidates were shortlisted and were at various stages of compliance with regard to the English Test and the Computer-Based Test.
The PS said the number was too low considering that the contract with the UK, which will run up to 2024, offers 22,000 slots for Kenyans.
“The number of those who have applied is still not satisfactory. The process is long and will take time, and even if you do not pass the English test, you can retake the test. The British Council will help with this,” he said.
Labour Cabinet Secretary Simon Chelugui advised the nurses to retake the English test and recommended coaching for those who would need it.
He added that the candidates would be reimbursed £198 for the tests but not for coaching.
They will work for 37.5 hours per week and earn approximately KES 3.86 million annually, translating to KES 321,499 per month.
They will also get free accommodation for three months and thereafter staff accommodation of £600 per month.
The NHS has 894 Kenyans working across all roles in England, making Kenyans the 30th largest nationality group in the NHS.
