EACC probes varsity over alleged graduation of 200 unqualified students, Sh2.6bn fraud
By Lucy Mumbi |
The EACC has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing corruption within Kenya’s higher education institutions to uphold integrity and education standards.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched an investigation into Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) for allegedly facilitating the graduation of over 200 unqualified students.
According to EACC Spokesperson Erick Ngumbi, some university officials reportedly received bribes to enable these students to graduate without completing their supplementary examinations.
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He expressed concern that corruption and unethical conduct were compromising the quality and standards of education in Kenya. He called on the university to undertake internal investigations and take action.
"It is alleged that six university officials received bribes to facilitate the graduation of over 200 unqualified students. Instead of sitting for supplementary examinations, the students colluded with the officials to bribe their way into the graduation list," he said.
He also noted that there were similar cases in 18 universities involving senior officials including vice-chancellors.
"What is emerging from reports received from 18 universities, it is clear that most of these problems are caused by serious leadership and governance problems," he added.
In addition to the academic fraud allegations, the EACC is probing a Sh2.6 billion scandal at the university.
Ngumbi explained that officials at JOOUST allegedly colluded with contractors and consultants to defraud the institution during the implementation of six major capital projects. Payments for these projects were made despite the work remaining incomplete.
Ngumbi disclosed that a search operation had been carried out at the homes of the former Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Stephen Gaya Agong’, in Homa Bay, Kisumu and Nairobi.
It was discovered that Agong’ had taken original documents related to the projects when he retired. However, the EACC managed to retrieve these documents to advance the investigation.
Speaking during the burial of Mama Joyce Oginde, the mother of EACC Chairperson Bishop David Oginde, in Ugenya Constituency, Ngumbi revealed that 18 public universities, including Moi University and the University of Nairobi, are under investigation for allegations of financial mismanagement, unethical practices, and academic fraud.
The EACC has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing corruption within Kenya’s higher education institutions to uphold integrity and education standards.
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