What You Need to Know
Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has initiated an investigation into questionable degrees awarded by Masinde Muliro University. The Commission for University Education is tasked with verifying the legitimacy of graduands amid concerns over the authenticity of certificates. This move aims to uphold the integrity of Kenya’s higher education system.
Africa-Press – Kenya. The Cabinet Secretary of Education, Julius Ogamba, has ordered investigations into questionable degrees issued by Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology nationwide in a directive issued on April 1.
In a statement late on Wednesday, Ogamba directed the Commission for University Education (CUE) to verify whether all listed graduands were genuine students and if they legitimately met requirements for the qualifications awarded during the institution’s recent graduation processes under scrutiny.
At the center of the issue are claims circulating widely online, raising doubts about the authenticity of some certificates, leaving many ordinary Kenyans questioning whether the country’s higher education system is adequately protecting the value of academic qualifications.
“Following allegations circulating on various social and mainstream media platforms questioning the bone fides of some graduands at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, I have today directed the Commission for University Education to undertake a thorough investigation into the matter,” stated CS Ogamba.
Ogamba emphasised that the investigation will establish the truth and restore confidence, noting that the CUE’s primary duty in that case is to verify that every certificate issued reflects genuine academic effort, proper assessment, and adherence to the national education standards expected across all accredited universities.
“The Commission is required to ascertain that all graduands were, in fact, students at the University, and that they duly qualified for the award of the qualifications that were conferred upon them,” stated part of the statement.
Ogamba insists the investigation is part of broader efforts to safeguard Kenya’s reputation as a regional education hub, especially at a time when local degrees increasingly compete in international academic and professional spaces.
At the same time, a separate statement circulating online, falsely attributed to the Ministry, has added to the confusion by discussing examination policies, with officials clarifying that it does not relate to the ongoing investigation into questionable certificates at MMUST.
The fake letter features the government’s public seal, the Ministry of Education’s initials, and, most shockingly, the signature of CS Ogamba, all meant to mislead the public.
The fake statement claims that invigilation, support, and marking are mandatory duties for teachers, framing them as extensions of professional service, language that has sparked debate among educators already dealing with heavy workloads in schools.
It reads, “Invigilation, support, and marking of student work are inherent and integral aspects of teachers’ professional duties and responsibilities”, a position the Ministry distances itself from.
The Ministry says the spread of such misleading communication risks distracting from the real issue and should not be given any sort of attention by the public.
“This is fake information intended to mislead the public and should be treated with the utmost contempt,” stated CS Ogamba.
Kenya’s higher education landscape has faced scrutiny over the years, particularly regarding the authenticity of academic qualifications. The rise of online allegations questioning the legitimacy of degrees has prompted government action to ensure that educational standards are upheld. The Ministry of Education’s commitment to transparency and accountability is crucial in maintaining public trust in the academic system. As the country positions itself as a regional education hub, addressing these concerns is vital for its reputation.
