“Ghost Degrees, Stolen Futures: Parents Demand Jail for MMUST Fraud Masterminds!”
ON THE ALLEGED GHOST GRADUATES SCANDAL AT Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology
By News Desk
The National Parents Association (NPA) has come out strongly in support of the ongoing investigations into the shocking “ghost graduates” scandal at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, following a directive by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba.
NPA notes with grave concern that the allegations, which point to the possible certification of unqualified individuals, represent a serious breach of trust and a dangerous erosion of the integrity of Kenya’s higher education system.
Universities are mandated to uphold strict academic standards—training, evaluating, and certifying students based purely on merit.
The emergence of so-called “ghost graduates” not only undermines this mandate but also casts doubt on the credibility of all degrees issued by the institution, including those legitimately earned.
The Association warns that such malpractice has far-reaching consequences. It threatens the global reputation of Kenya’s education system, devalues academic qualifications, and exposes genuine graduates to unfair scrutiny in both local and international job markets.
NPA further highlights the devastating impact on families. Parents invest heavily—financially and emotionally—in their children’s education, trusting institutions to deliver legitimate outcomes. Fraudulent certification is therefore a betrayal that could lead to job disqualifications, legal troubles, and, in extreme cases, students being forced to restart their academic journeys.
The Association is now calling for swift, firm, and uncompromising action against all those involved. Any institution or individual found culpable must face the full force of the law, as issuing fraudulent academic credentials constitutes a criminal offense in Kenya.
To ensure transparency and accountability, NPA has urged the involvement of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) in the investigations, citing the high likelihood of corruption, fraud, and abuse of office.
NPA National Chairman Silas David Obuhatsa has also issued a stern warning to students against engaging in academic shortcuts, emphasizing that such actions could permanently destroy their futures.
He further called on parents to remain vigilant and actively involved in their children’s education, cautioning against falling prey to fraudulent schemes disguised as opportunities.
Speaking from Mombasa during the Easter holiday, Mr. Obuhatsa reiterated that if the allegations are proven true, the consequences for those involved will be severe and life-altering, describing the situation as a “tragic and avoidable loss of opportunity.”
NPA insists that this case must serve as a national turning point. All culprits must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law to restore public trust and deter similar scandals across the country.
The Association reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting the interests of learners and parents, and to safeguarding the integrity, credibility, and global standing of Kenya’s education system.
