Is Northwestern Christian University legitimate? Many Kenyans are asking this after the university came under scrutiny for awarding honorary degrees to controversial politicians in the Kenya Kwanza government.
Recipients include Oscar Sudi (Kapsaret), Didmus Barasa (Kimilili), and John Waluke (Sirisia). The Commission for University Education (CUE) is investigating how this unrecognized institution issued these degrees in Kenya.
Northwestern Christian University Under Fire for Questionable Degrees
The legitimacy of Northwestern Christian University has sparked public outcry after it awarded honorary degrees to three controversial politicians: Oscar Sudi (Kapsaret), Didmus Barasa (Kimilili), and John Waluke (Sirisia).
Sudi has faced accusations of using fake academic credentials in parliament. Barasa was involved in a fatal shooting shortly after the August 2022 elections. Waluke, sentenced to 67 years in jail for corruption, remains free due to his ties to the current government.
Following public outrage, the Commission for University Education (CUE) launched an investigation into the unaccredited institution and its issuance of academic degrees in Kenya.
CUE Labels the Institution Unaccredited
CUE confirmed in a statement that Northwestern Christian University lacks accreditation in Kenya. The commission declared that any credentials issued by the institution are invalid locally.
“The Commission has noted media reports on honorary doctorates issued by Northwestern Christian University. We remind the public that this institution is unaccredited and not authorized to offer any university education in Kenya,” the statement read.
CUE highlighted its previous warnings, including a newspaper advertisement in June 2023, cautioning Kenyans about unaccredited institutions.
Legal Consequences and Public Advice
CUE emphasized that awarding degrees without accreditation violates the Universities Act, CAP 210.
The commission warned that it has the authority to take legal action against institutions operating illegally.
“Kenyans are informed that unaccredited institutions issuing academic qualifications are breaking the law. The Commission is investigating Northwestern Christian University and will take appropriate action once investigations are complete,” the statement added.
CUE advised the public to verify accredited universities and their programs through its official website or direct consultation to avoid falling victim to fraudulent institutions.
Is Northwestern Christian University Legit? Accreditation Concerns and History
Northwestern Christian University (NCU) is a division of Christian Alliance Ministries that provides online Christian education for individuals seeking theological degrees.
The university offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in various fields through an accelerated online learning model.
Students can enroll and graduate each month, and they have access to 50,000 free e-books through NCU’s online library instead of purchasing textbooks.
History and Founder
According to its website, NCU was founded in 1980 by Howard M. Sarkela, Ph.D., Th.D., D.Min., D.D. He currently serves as the presiding bishop of the university.
Accreditation Status
NCU claims the International Association for Christian Educational Accountability (IACEA) has accredited it theologically. However, many have questioned its legitimacy, particularly in Kenya.
In June 2023, the Commission for University Education (CUE) issued a public warning about NCU and 13 other institutions, citing concerns over their accreditation.
Kenyan authorities flagged the university for offering unaccredited programs, such as a Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Theology, which do not meet regulatory standards.