Thika: The government has been urged to introduce stringent regulations governing the award of honorary degrees to protect the credibility and dignity of the country’s higher education sector. Speaking during Mount Kenya University’s (MKU) 28th graduation ceremony in Thika, MKU Founder and Board Chairman Prof. Simon Gicharu warned that the uncontrolled issuance of honorary degrees risks eroding public trust in universities.
According to Kenya News Agency, Prof. Gicharu highlighted that the perception of honorary degrees being issued as political rewards rather than based on merit undermines genuine academic achievement. ‘Degrees must be earned through hard work in class,’ he told the more than 9,000 graduands, calling for clear national standards to ensure transparency, fairness, and academic dignity in honorary recognitions.
His remarks were echoed by South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro, whose wife was among the graduands. Osoro emphasized the importance of maintaining the value of Kenya’s qualifications, urging the youth to pursue innovation rather than rely on government for jobs. The ceremony, held under the theme ‘From Knowledge to Nation-Building: Advancing Responsible Leadership and Governance,’ brought together senior government officials, education leaders, and international partners.
Chief Guest Dr. Aurelia Rono, Principal Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs, stressed that safeguarding academic integrity is essential to strengthening governance, policymaking, and national development. She credited universities such as MKU for helping translate knowledge into practical solutions, noting student-led innovations like EcoBlue and Nanaheal Enterprises that have earned international recognition.
University Council Chairman Dr. Vincent Gaitho highlighted MKU’s expanding role in shaping ethical leadership and contributing to research that informs national policy. Prof. Gaitho noted that the institution’s 130,000 alumni have become influencers across business, technology, governance, and media.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi stated that the university continues to revise curricula, support innovation hubs, and provide industry-driven training to ensure graduates remain competitive. He cited the recent introduction of a UBTECH Walker E-Educational Humanoid Robot to strengthen AI learning and interdisciplinary research.
Meanwhile, Prof. Gicharu also announced new partnerships, including a pact with Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, and ongoing investments in dentistry training, hospitality centers, and maritime education aimed at expanding graduates’ opportunities. The event also honored outstanding alumni and celebrated notable graduates, including Kenya’s Ambassador to Israel, Samuel Thuita, and Kilifi Woman Representative Gertrude Mbeyu.
