A prominent university official has called on the government to establish stricter policies to regulate the awarding of honorary degrees, warning that current practices risk undermining the credibility of higher education in Kenya.
Speaking at Mount Kenya University’s (MKU) 28th graduation ceremony, where over 9,000 graduates were conferred with qualifications, Dr Simon Gicharu, MKU Founder and Chairman, stressed the need to safeguard academic standards.
Dr Gicharu expressed concern that the unregulated issuance of these degrees is eroding public trust in academic institutions. He specifically cautioned against the perception that some degrees are being awarded for political support or patronage rather than genuine merit.
“Degrees must be earned through hard work in class,” Dr Gicharu asserted. He urged universities to actively reserve and protect academic dignity by upholding strict standards and maintaining transparency in all recognitions and awards.
His call for greater scrutiny was echoed by South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro, whose wife was among the graduating class. Osoro emphasised that academic qualifications must be earned through dedication, arguing that such genuine achievements are what empower young people to compete effectively on the global stage.
MP Osoro also challenged the newly graduated youth to focus on innovation and to actively tap into the opportunities created by the current business-friendly environment, rather than resorting to blaming the government for unemployment challenges.
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The event’s Chief Guest, Dr Aurelia Rono, Principal Secretary at the State Department for Parliamentary Affairs, commended MKU for its efforts to foster business linkages and opportunities for its alums. Dr Rono encouraged the graduates to embrace digital innovation as a crucial pathway to success and competitiveness in the modern economy.
Dr Rono also urged young people to take an active role in decision-making processes and nation-building, highlighting that their involvement is vital for driving sustainable development in Kenya.
The graduates themselves shared the celebratory atmosphere. Faith Kwamboka, a Bachelor of Education graduate, expressed her optimism and excitement for the future. She stated she is ready to explore new opportunities and apply the valuable skills acquired throughout her studies with confidence and determination.
The comprehensive remarks from the platform underscore a growing conversation about the necessity of preserving academic rigour and ensuring that hard-earned qualifications remain the gold standard in Kenya’s higher education sector.
By Felix Wanderi
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