The Government has demoted Maasai Mara University Vice Chancellor Professor Kitche Magak and appointed Joseph Chacha to replace him.
This is after the former Vice-Chancellor Magak was dismissed over claims that he acquired his PhD degree from an online university which is neither recognised nor accredited the degree.
His PhD degree was from Washington International University (WIU) which is not recognized by Kenya’s Commission for University Education.
A letter from the Department of Education in the State of Hawaii had earlier indicated that WIU was shut down by the state in 2015 after a short period as a Diploma college.
“Note, therefore that, there is no university by the name of Washington International University (WIU) in the state of Hawaii or Pennsylvania,” read the statement from the State of Hawaii.
Previously the Deputy Vice-Chancellor was in charge of Partnership, Research and Innovation at Maseno University.
Apart from the demotion, Magak is now under probe by both the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
His troubles began in 2021 after new complaints emerged regarding the then acting VC’s qualifications to occupy the leadership role.
The complainants specifically told Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha that Magak did not possess a valid PhD certificate which then sparked investigations into his conduct.
“The university has not sought educational accreditation and does not have a campus. As recently as October 2012, the Oregon Office of Degree Authorisation stated on its website that WIU is located in the British Virgin Islands and that its degrees are not recognised.
“As a centre that is mandated to combat cheating, plagiarism, academic dishonesty and champion for integrity, we, therefore, urge you to take necessary action,’’ the team urged Magoha.
This leaves the country at crossroads with international bodies now questioning the credibility of Kenya’s appointment of individuals to management positions.
Onyango took charge of the wheels at Maasai Mara University last Wednesday during a low-key ceremony presided over by Maasai Mara University Council chairman Kennedy ole Kerei.
Magak, who succeeded Mary Walingo, was sent on compulsory leave in September 2019 to allow investigations to continue as she was accused of corruption allegations in court.
