The Commission for University Education (CUE) has launched an investigation into the alleged degree award irregularities at the Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) in a bid to reassure Kenyans of the integrity of the country’s higher education system.
In a statement issued Friday, April 3, CUE Chief Executive Officer Prof. Mike Kuria announced the formation of a multidisciplinary team of experts to conduct what he described as a “comprehensive and objective review” into the claims.
The commission said it had taken note “with grave concern” of media reports suggesting that academic qualifications may have been conferred irregularly at the Kakamega-based institution.
Kuria emphasized that the investigation falls squarely within the commission’s statutory mandate to regulate and oversee university education standards in Kenya.
“Any individuals or entities found culpable of misconduct will be held accountable and appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the applicable legal and regulatory frameworks,” Kuria said.
The regulator warned that if proven true, the allegations would represent a serious breach of academic integrity and could erode public trust in university qualifications across the country.
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The probe follows a directive by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, who earlier this week instructed CUE to investigate the matter amid growing public scrutiny. Ogamba said the commission must ascertain that all graduands were bona fide students who had duly qualified for the awards conferred upon them.
The controversy was sparked by remarks from Mukhisa Kituyi, a former UNCTAD secretary-general and current United Opposition spokesperson. Speaking during a radio interview, Kituyi alleged that a past graduation ceremony at MMUST included names of individuals who had never been admitted to the university.
“It’s an absolute reality. They came with a gown, they got a degree, and they went away,” Kituyi claimed, terming the alleged incident as indicative of systemic weaknesses within the education sector.
However, MMUST has firmly rejected the accusations. Through Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs Prof. Hussein Golicha, the university described the claims as unverified and damaging to its reputation. Golicha maintained that all graduands undergo rigorous approval processes in line with university statutes and regulatory requirements.
CUE has urged the public to remain calm and refrain from speculation as investigations proceed, reiterating its commitment under the Universities Act to safeguard the quality, credibility and global recognition of Kenyan university degrees.
By Kithinji Njeru
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