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.
He said the perception that such honours are sometimes issued as political rewards rather than based on merit undermines genuine academic achievement.
“Degrees must be earned through hard work in class,” Prof. Gicharu 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 said Kenya must jealously guard the value of its qualifications.
“When you earn a degree through your own effort, it propels you to greater heights and enables you to compete globally,” he said, 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, said 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 said the institution’s 130,000 alumni have become influencers across business, technology, governance and media
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi said 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 centres and maritime education aimed at expanding graduates’ opportunities.
The event also honoured outstanding alumni and celebrated notable graduates, including Kenya’s Ambassador to Israel, Samuel Thuita, and Kilifi Woman Representative Gertrude Mbeyu.
by Muoki Charles
