CUE Summons Mukhisa Kituyi Over Explosive ‘Fake Degrees’ Allegations at MMUST

The Commission for University Education (CUE) has summoned Mukhisa Kituyi to answer to serious allegations he made regarding the issuance of questionable academic degrees at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST).

In a statement released on Thursday, April 16, the commission said it intends to formally engage the former United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Secretary-General over remarks he made during a radio interview on March 31, 2026—claims that have since sparked widespread concern within Kenya’s higher education sector.

During the interview, Kituyi alleged that a graduation ceremony held approximately two years ago at MMUST included individuals who had never been admitted to the institution.

According to him, the names of these individuals only appeared when the graduation list was published, raising serious questions about the integrity of the process.

“The graduation two years ago at Masinde Muliro University had names of persons who were never admitted to that university,” Kituyi claimed. “The first time their names were seen at the university is when they appeared on the graduation printout. They came with gowns, received degrees, and left.”

The claims have triggered alarm, with stakeholders warning that if proven true, such practices could severely undermine public trust in Kenya’s academic institutions.

CUE confirmed that it had already taken note of the allegations following media reports and initiated preliminary investigations, as outlined in an earlier statement issued on April 3, 2026. The commission emphasized that verifying the claims is critical to safeguarding the credibility of academic qualifications awarded in the country.

As part of its inquiry, the regulator said it attempted to reach Kituyi through his last known address on April 9, 2026, seeking his cooperation in the investigations. However, the commission noted that it had not received any response.

“The commission requires the engagement of Dr Mukhisa Kituyi on the allegations against Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology,” the statement read.

CUE has now directed Kituyi to appear before its offices in Gigiri between April 20 and April 24, 2026. During the session, he is expected to provide further details and any supporting evidence to substantiate his claims.

He has also been advised to contact the commission through its official communication channels to facilitate the process.

The commission reiterated that its mandate includes regulating and accrediting universities, as well as ensuring quality assurance across the higher education sector.

It stressed that addressing such allegations is part of its responsibility to uphold academic standards and protect the integrity of Kenya’s education system.

The unfolding developments have placed renewed focus on accountability within universities, with observers noting that the outcome of the probe could have far-reaching implications.

Should the allegations be substantiated, they may prompt sweeping reforms and stricter oversight mechanisms to prevent similar incidents in the future.

BY EMMANUEL