Internal governance role in tackling varsity fraud

Recent allegations of financial fraud and academic scandals have spotlighted significant governance weaknesses in Kenya’s higher education sector, leading to a crisis in credibility and public trust. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is investigating 18 universities over claims of mismanagement of funds and academic malpractices.

Financial fraud remains a pervasive issue in Kenyan universities, threatening education quality. Common fraudulent practices include embezzlement through inflated or fake expenses, procurement irregularities like non-competitive contracts or collusion, and misallocation of funds meant for academic or infrastructure projects. These unethical practices undermine institutional integrity, depriving students and staff of the crucial resources needed for effective learning and development.

Academic fraud, particularly the illegal graduation of students, has also been reported, undermining the meritocratic principles that universities are expected to uphold. Allegations include falsified academic records, bribery to bypass academic requirements, and unapproved credit transfers. These actions not only devalue academic qualifications but also likely to compromise the global standing of Kenya’s higher education system.

Kenyan universities operate under a structured governance system comprising the University Management Board (UMB), the Senate, the Council and the chancellor. These entities are tasked with ensuring financial accountability, academic integrity, and adherence to institutional mandates. But, what is the role of each entity in cases of fraud?

As the executive arm of the university, the UMB oversees daily operations and implements policies. The UMB is responsible for financial management and must answer for irregularities such as embezzlement or misallocation of funds. Internal audit units within universities play a crucial role in monitoring compliance with procurement laws and detecting anomalies, forming the first line of defense against financial fraud.

The Senate is the academic authority responsible for upholding academic standards of a university. It oversees admissions, curricula, examinations and graduation approvals. Departmental and school boards, academic registrars, and quality assurance units work under the Senate to verify academic records, address grade discrepancies, and maintain compliance with institutional policies. The Senate is empowered by university statutes to withdraw degrees obtained fraudulently.

The vice-chancellor, who chairs both the UMB and the Senate, is pivotal in maintaining the university’s financial and academic integrity. The VC must lead decisively, ensuring accountability by demanding answers from those in charge of financial and academic processes. In cases of fraud, the VC has the authority to suspend any implicated officials to facilitate thorough investigations. The VC’s leadership is instrumental in inculcating a culture of trust, ethical governance, and justice.

The Council provides strategic oversight, ensuring adherence to national education laws and institutional policies. It approves budgets, supervises financial management and is responsible for hiring key personnel, including the VC. In instances of fraud, the Council must demand accountability from both the UMB and the Senate, through the VC.

At the apex of a university’s organisational structure, is the chancellor. As titular heads, they have a ceremonial role but can influence governance during crises. Recent fraud allegations in Kenyan universities are a wake-up call for all stakeholders in the education sector. By strengthening transparent governance structures, embracing technological solutions, and a culture of integrity, universities can rebuild public trust and reaffirm their role as centres of knowledge and innovation.

— The writer is a Professor of physical chemistry at the University of Eldoret