A section of teachers attending the 2025 National Agricultural Teachers’ Conference at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) have raised serious concerns over a bedbug infestation in the hostels allocated for accommodation.

The 3-day conference, which has drawn hundreds of agricultural science teachers from across the country, kicked off this week with the aim of enhancing knowledge exchange and professional development in agricultural education. However, what was expected to be a productive and inspiring event has been marred by complaints of unsanitary and uncomfortable living conditions.

A concerned teacher, who is one of the participants, lamented that many attendees have been forced to stay in student hostels that are heavily infested with bedbugs, citing Ndovu Hostel 6 as one of the most affected.

“We are attending the 3‑day 2025 National Agricultural Teachers’ Conference at JKUAT, but teachers from across the country are being forced to sleep in hostels crawling with bedbugs. It is unacceptable that such a key national event is being held in such deplorable conditions,” said the teacher, who requested anonymity for fear of victimization. “Ndovu Hostel 6 is one of the worst. We are calling for urgent intervention to address this embarrassment.”

The reports have sparked outrage among the attendees, many of whom argue that hosting professionals in infested and unkempt accommodation is not only degrading but also a health risk. Several teachers have reported sleepless nights, allergic reactions, and discomfort due to the persistent bites.

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Many teachers have also expressed disappointment, noting that the conditions undermine the importance and stature of the national conference, which is meant to uplift and motivate educators in the agricultural sector.

“This is not how professionals should be treated. Teachers have travelled from far and wide to attend this event, only to face such indignity. It’s shameful and needs immediate redress,” another participating teacher added.

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