The Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) has announced plans to audit all 2024 graduates before issuing certificates, following reports of irregular awarding of degrees at the institution.
On Tuesday, November 26, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) disclosed that at least 200 students allegedly bribed university officials to avoid supplementary examinations and secure places on the graduation list.
In response, the university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Emily Akuno, confirmed that names of students implicated in irregular practices had already been removed from the preliminary graduation list.
The university has also formed a special team, in partnership with EACC officials, to conduct a thorough vetting of all graduates.
“We are committed to upholding transparency, ethical conduct, and good governance in all our operations,” stated Prof. Akuno. “We appreciate the public’s support and patience as these matters are addressed through the appropriate channels.”
EACC spokesperson Eric Ngumbi, while launching investigations in Ugenya sub-county, urged the university to act swiftly against those found culpable.
“The commission expects the university administration to take immediate action to address this issue. If investigations confirm these allegations, it will be a significant problem,” Ngumbi said.
He also revealed that similar malpractice was under investigation in at least 18 other universities across the country.
