Kenya's Deputy Speaker Criticizes Obsession with Degrees Amid Fake Certificate Scandal

Gladys Boss, the Deputy Speaker of Kenya's National Assembly, has spoken out against the country's preoccupation with academic degrees, which she argues has contributed to the proliferation of fake certificates among government officials. In a statement on April 23, 2024, Boss suggested that the government should offer amnesty to public servants who hold fraudulent academic credentials, allowing them to resign without facing legal repercussions.

The Deputy Speaker's comments come amidst ongoing efforts by Kenyan authorities to identify and remove civil servants with fake qualifications from their positions. The Public Service Commission, Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, and Directorate of Criminal Investigations have been collaborating to investigate and weed out individuals who have obtained their jobs using falsified academic documents.

Boss contends that the government's current approach of prosecuting those found to possess fake degrees may not be the most effective way to address the issue. Instead, she proposes granting amnesty to these individuals, giving them the opportunity to voluntarily leave their roles.

To prevent future incidents of academic fraud, the Deputy Speaker has also called for the introduction of a verification platform similar to the National Education Management Information System (NEMIS). Such a system would enable universities and employers to easily confirm the authenticity of academic qualifications presented by job applicants and employees.

Why this matters: The prevalence of fake academic certificates among Kenyan government officials undermines public trust in the country's institutions and raises concerns about the competence and integrity of those in positions of power. Addressing this issue is crucial for ensuring good governance and maintaining the credibility of Kenya's civil service.

Boss's suggestions for tackling the problem of fake degrees in government have sparked a nationwide discussion about the value placed on academic qualifications in Kenyan society.

Key Takeaways

• Kenyan Deputy Speaker calls for amnesty for officials with fake degrees
• Authorities investigating civil servants with fraudulent academic credentials
• Proposal for a verification system to prevent future academic fraud
• Fake degrees undermine public trust in Kenyan government institutions
• Ongoing debate on the value placed on academic qualifications in Kenya