Northwestern Christian University Under Fire Over Honorary Degrees for Kenyan Politicians.
The recent conferment of honorary degrees to lawmakers Oscar Sudi, Didmus Barasa, and John Waluke by Northwestern Christian University has sparked criticism from professional bodies, raising questions about merit and process.
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) strongly opposed Sudi’s use of the title “engineer,” citing its protection under law. The organization argued that conferring the title without adherence to formal academic requirements undermines the integrity of the engineering discipline.
Eng. Shammah Kiteme, the IEK President, expressed outrage over the certificate bearing the title “Hon. Eng. Sudi.”
He noted that this misrepresentation violates the Engineers Act of 2011, which stipulates penalties of Ksh. 500,000, two years in jail, or both.
Kiteme highlighted that legitimate engineers undergo rigorous processes to earn their titles and dismissed Sudi’s use of “engineer” as a breach of legal and professional standards.
Sudi Defends His Honorary Doctorate
Hours after receiving an Honorary Doctorate in Leadership Administration and Management from Northwestern Christian University, Sudi defended his academic achievements.
He stated that he had overcome public criticism regarding his education, pursued further studies, and achieved his doctorate.
Sudi also compared himself to President William Ruto, saying he was now a doctor like the head of state.
He lamented not having his certificates on hand to showcase his academic journey but insisted he had earned recognition.
Honorary degrees are awarded by universities to individuals who make exceptional societal contributions, bypassing traditional academic requirements.
These degrees recognize achievements in various fields and are governed by each university’s internal policies.
The awarding process involves a selection committee—typically made up of professors—reviewing nominees’ profiles, public vetting through newspaper and online announcements, and final approval by the University Senate and Council through the Vice-Chancellor.
Criticism of Northwestern Christian University’s Processes
Sudi’s conferment also reignited concerns about Northwestern Christian University’s legitimacy. In 2023, the Commission for University Education flagged 13 Christian institutions, including Northwestern Christian University, as illegal entities offering unaccredited programs.
The institution, which claims theological accreditation from the International Association for Christian Education Accountability, recently awarded other honorary degrees. Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa received an Honorary Degree in Leadership and Governance, and Sirisia MP John Waluke was honored with an Honorary Degree in Public Administration and Political Science.
The graduation ceremony, held in Eldoret City, featured former Bahati MP Kimani Ngunjiri as the Chief Guest of Honor.
Kenya’s History of Honorary Degrees
Despite the backlash, universities in Kenya have a long history of awarding honorary degrees to distinguished individuals.
The University of Nairobi, for instance, conferred honorary degrees on environmentalist Wangari Maathai for her conservation efforts, President Mwai Kibaki for national service, and philanthropist Dr. SK Macharia.
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Other recipients include former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, Presidents Jomo Kenyatta and Daniel arap Moi, and Dr. Julius Gikonyo.
Kiteme reiterated the distinction between honorary degree holders and qualified engineers. He explained that individuals listed in the engineering register—such as Graduate Engineers, Professional Engineers, and Consulting Engineers—rightfully earn the prefix “Eng.”
Misuse of this title by unqualified individuals demeans the profession and violates the law, he stated.
Northwestern Christian University Under Fire Over Honorary Degrees for Kenyan Politicians.
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