By Joy Christine 
The National Assembly Committee on Education has raised concerns over the catastrophic nature of the commission of university Education (CUE) in the accreditation requisite.
In a heated parliamentary meeting chaired by Tinderet Member of Parliament (MP) Julius Melly, they sought for answers over reports which showed that at least 15 unaccredited universities are currently in operation and offers lucrative courses without their fully expected cadre.
They questioned how some private universities have been allowed to operate for years without meeting the minimum accreditation standards hence compromising the quality of higher education in the country.
Members of Parliament demanded answers from CUE chairman Prof.Chacha Nyaigotti and Commission’s Secretary and CEO, Prof.Mike Kuria regarding its oversight role and measures taken in curbing the menace.
“How many universities currently offering degrees and PhDs have been shut down and taken to court?” wondered Melly. He further trolled the commission to remain answerable and accountable for any quarks in the employment fields.
“We cannot allow a situation where our youth are being duped into spending money and time at institutions whose qualifications are not recognized and this is not just a policy failure; it is a crisis.” exploded parliamentary education chair.
Prof. Kuria in his response attested that there are gaps in the accreditation system dating back to implementation of the Universities Act in 2012 which had been a major factor in contributing to discrepancies in universities records.
He confirmed that CUE in collaboration with law enforcement has intensified efforts to crack down on illegal institutions and revealed that so far out of the 15 institutions that have been flagged, there are two already in courts regarding the issuance of fake degrees.
He added that the Commission regularly publishes lists of accredited universities as a means of guiding parents and students to choose wisely during admissions.
MPs however expressed dissatisfaction with CUE’s oversight role and its lapses.Hon. Christine Ombaka raised an issue with worsening student- lecturer ratio and asked the measures being taken to regulate enrollment and ensure institutions have adequate personnel.
Hon. Florence Mutua took issues on the emotional and financial toll on affected students.
“We are talking about shattered dreams. Students mostly are turned away at job interviews, families losing their investments and the erosion of public trust in our system.” she reiterated.
The debate reignited calls for stricter enforcement of quality education in higher institutions. There are calls for reviewing existing policies and proposed amendments that will make it easier to monitor and shut down unaccredited universities.
Ministry of Education has promised to work closely with Parliament and CUE in addressing the issue. The outcome of this could mark a turning point in the regulation of universities in Kenya.
Angatia Leonard
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