Questions around how degrees are awarded at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology have triggered a formal response from the Commission for University Education, which has now moved in to verify claims that some individuals may have graduated without meeting the required academic steps.
In its statement issued on Friday, April 3, the Commission said it had taken note of reports circulating in the public domain alleging possible irregular issuance of degrees. The regulator expressed concern that if such claims are true, they could undermine confidence in universities and the wider education sector.
"The Commission notes with grave concern recent media reports circulating across various platforms alleging that Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) may have irregularly and fraudulently awarded degrees to individuals who were neither duly admitted nor registered as bona fide students of the institution.
"Such allegations, if proven, constitute a serious breach of academic integrity and pose a significant threat to public confidence in Kenya's higher education system," the statement read.
To address the matter, the Commission said it has begun a formal inquiry aimed at establishing the truth behind the allegations. As part of this process, it has assembled a team of experts drawn from different disciplines to examine records, procedures, and compliance with academic standards at the institution.
"In response, and in accordance with its statutory mandate, the Commission has initiated an investigation to establish the facts surrounding the matter. A multidisciplinary team of experts has been constituted to undertake a comprehensive and objective review of the allegations," the statement added.
The regulator further indicated that the outcome of the investigation will determine the next course of action, including possible sanctions against any parties found to have violated the law or academic regulations.
"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," the statement further read.
The move follows a denial by the university, which came a day earlier after concerns were raised publicly about its graduation system. The institution rejected claims that it had awarded degrees to individuals who were not enrolled or did not complete academic requirements.
The matter gained attention after remarks made by a local politician during a radio discussion on Monday, March 31, which sparked debate and prompted scrutiny of the university’s processes.
Addressing the issue, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs Hussein Golicha explained that the university operates under strict academic procedures that every student must follow before graduating.
"All students who graduate from this University apply, get admitted, register, go through their chosen courses and only graduate once they have satisfied the Examiners and Senate," he stated.
He further noted that the institution does not allow automatic graduation and that each candidate must pass through formal approval stages before being cleared.
"Students who qualify for graduation are duly processed through the approval processes as provided for in the University statutes," he added.
Golicha also addressed concerns tied to the Open and Distance Learning programme, explaining that it allows students to study remotely while still meeting all academic requirements before graduation.
"The University has Open and Distance Learning where students take classes from the comfort of their area of operation/homes away from the university, and are processed for graduation only when they meet the requirements," he further said.
