In recent years, Kenya has taken significant strides to address the issue of fraudulent academic qualifications among university staff.

The crackdown, aimed at maintaining the integrity of higher education, has seen many unqualified individuals removed from positions, among them academic staff.

However, attention should now shift to a different and equally concerning aspect of the education sector: the credibility of university council members.

Despite the rigorous measures implemented to ensure that academic staff hold legitimate qualifications, there appears to be a troubling oversight regarding the academic credentials of university council members. Recent investigations have revealed that several council members possess fake academic papers.

The Universities Act of 2012 outlines clear guidelines for the composition, qualifications and responsibilities of university councils. However, it appears that these regulations have not been adequately enforced in the vetting process for council members.

In conclusion, the vetting of university council members in accordance with the Universities Act 2012 is not just a necessity but a crucial step in upholding the standards of higher education in Kenya. Only through such rigorous checks can the country ensure that its universities are governed by individuals of integrity and competence.

Prof. Maurice Oduor Okoth

Former Vice-Chancellor