The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has raised alarm over increasing cases of academic fraud, plagiarism, and fake academic certificates among young people, warning that the trend is undermining integrity and eroding public trust in institutions.
Speaking during the launch of the Ethics and Integrity Club at Mount Kenya University (MKU), EACC Chairperson Dr. David Oginde said dishonesty had become increasingly normalized among some sections of society, including university students.
Dr. Oginde said the commission is overwhelmed by investigations involving forged academic certificates, some linked to individuals holding senior positions in both public and private institutions.
He noted that cases of plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty are also on the rise in institutions of higher learning.
“It is sad that surveys reveal many young people do not see harm in dishonesty,” said Dr. Oginde.
He challenged students to reject shortcuts to success and instead embrace integrity, hard work, and honesty as the foundation for personal achievement and national development.
“Why go to university and fail to earn a genuine certificate that truly reflects who you are? No nation has ever thrived through corruption. Greatness is built on honesty, hard work and trust,” he said.
Dr. Oginde urged young people to take a leading role in rebuilding ethical values and combating corruption, noting that the country’s future depends on a generation committed to doing the right thing.
MKU Principal for Corporate Services and Director of Partnerships and Linkages Prof. Peter Wanderi said the university is strengthening value-based education through a common unit on ethics, integrity, and responsible citizenship.
“We need to keep talking about integrity at all times and also practice it. I am happy that even the MKU anthem speaks about integrity, which reflects our institutional values,” said Prof. Wanderi.
Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, Fikirini Jacobs, called on students to become ambassadors of change by upholding ethical leadership and positive values.
“Appoint yourself to be an ambassador of change because Kenya will not change without your participation,” said Jacobs.
By Muoki Charles
