The Commission for University Education (CUE) is facing tough questions from Parliament over rising cases of fake academic certificates, a persistent staffing shortage, and a growing debt burden, raising doubts about its capacity to regulate Kenya’s universities effectively.
During an inspection visit to CUE offices in Gigiri, Nairobi, Members of Parliament voiced concern over the proliferation of forged degrees, insufficient staff, and a Sh935.7 million debt owed to the Commission.
CUE Chief Executive Officer Prof. Mike Kuria acknowledged the challenges but defended the Commission’s mandate to uphold standards, quality, and relevance in university education, training, and research.
He revealed that of the approved 131 positions, only 61 staff members are currently in post, representing 46 per cent of the required capacity.
“This shortfall, largely attributed to an ongoing government moratorium on recruitment, has impeded the Commission’s ability to meet service delivery expectations, potentially leading to operational delays and reputational risk,” he said.
Committee Chair Julius Melly questioned CUE’s approach to tackling the issue of fake degrees and sought clarity on actions against religious institutions operating outside the law.
Prof. Kuria confirmed that the Commission has involved the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and noted that four cases involving fake degrees are currently active.
“All religious institutions found issuing fake degrees and certificates will be dealt with and must adhere to the Education Act of 2013,” he said.
Luanda MP Dick Maungu raised concerns about fake degrees awarded to religious leaders and politicians, pressing the CEO on the measures put in place to address the trend.
The Committee also probed ongoing disputes with professional bodies over programme accreditation, which have led to conflicting court rulings and confusion over which courses should be recognized by professional organizations.
Prof. Kuria said that CUE involves representatives from relevant professional bodies during programme evaluations to foster collaboration and ensure graduates can practice globally. He added that the Commission is working on a clear policy to distinguish academic training from professional development.
MPs also expressed concern over outstanding university debts, mostly unpaid quality assurance fees from the 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 financial years, totalling Sh935,724,376.
Nandi MP Rebecca Tonkei suggested that CUE should be allowed to use internally generated funds, which reached Sh310,656,750 against a target of Sh275,000,000, a 113 per cent performance, to develop the institution.
Prof. Kuria explained, however, that expenditure ceilings and Treasury restrictions limit the use of these funds for critical development projects. MPs additionally scrutinized the quality and market relevance of university courses, seeking assurance that graduates are equipped for employment.