JKUAT Disputes Didmus Barasa’s Academic Credentials, Says Certificate Is Not Genuine

Nairobi, Kenya — Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) has disputed the academic credentials attributed to Kimilili Member of Parliament Didmus Barasa, stating that he was not a student at the institution and that it did not award him a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering in May 2008.

The university’s position was communicated to the Consumers Federation of Kenya (COFEK) in a letter dated September 14, 2026, signed by Registrar Academic Affairs Dr. Aggrey Wanyama.

University Records Dispute Degree Claim

In the letter, Dr. Wanyama reportedly stated that Barasa’s name does not appear in JKUAT’s alumni records.

The registrar also disputed the authenticity of the certificate attributed to the MP, explaining that the university did not hold a graduation ceremony in May 2008.

Based on these findings, JKUAT concluded that the Bachelor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering certificate presented in Barasa’s name was “NOT GENUINE.”

“His name doesn’t appear on our alumni records, and JKUAT did not have a graduation in May 2008. His certificate for Bachelor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering Programme is therefore ‘NOT GENUINE,’” Dr. Aggrey Wanyama, JKUAT Registrar Academic Affairs, said, according to the reported letter.

Matter Previously Raised with EACC and EBK

JKUAT further indicated that the issue had previously been investigated by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK).

The university said information concerning the legitimacy of the academic qualifications had been communicated to both institutions.

“This matter has previously been investigated by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK), and the same information was communicated to both organisations,” the registrar stated.

The university added that it had communicated its findings to EACC and EBK for consideration and any necessary action.

Academic Credentials Under Scrutiny

The reported findings place renewed attention on the verification of academic qualifications held by public officials in Kenya. JKUAT’s statement specifically concerns the alleged student records, graduation date and authenticity of the certificate attributed to Barasa.

However, the university’s reported position should be distinguished from any independent determination of wrongdoing. The precise circumstances surrounding the certificate, including how it was obtained or presented, would require further investigation by the relevant authorities.

What Happens Next?

The communication to EACC and EBK indicates that the matter has been referred to institutions responsible for considering the implications of the findings within their respective mandates.

Any further action, including possible investigations or official determinations, would depend on the relevant authorities’ review of the evidence and applicable procedures.