The Milimani High Court has ordered Egerton University to conduct remedial classes for its Engineering graduates, following a denial of registration by the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK). The court’s decision stems from claims that the university offered unaccredited Engineering courses between 2014 and 2019.
Judge Lawrence Mugambi delivered the ruling virtually, highlighting the central issue of the petition: “The gravamen of the petition is the allegation that the 1st respondent offered unaccredited engineering courses to its students who upon graduation, the Engineers Board of Kenya (3rd Respondent), refused to register as graduate engineers thereby denying them a chance of ever becoming engineers.”
Background and Context
The dispute between Egerton University and its Engineering graduates emerged when the EBK denied registration to graduates, citing unaccredited programs. According to EBK regulations, only graduates from accredited engineering programs can be registered, which is a prerequisite for practicing as an engineer in Kenya.
Egerton University has faced scrutiny over its Engineering programs, with concerns raised about the quality and accreditation of the courses offered during the period from 2014 to 2019. This situation has left many graduates in a precarious position, unable to pursue their professional engineering careers.
Court’s Directive
In its ruling, the Milimani High Court ordered Egerton University to provide remedial classes for the affected Engineering graduates over the next three months. This decision is aimed at bridging the gap between the unaccredited courses and the standards required by the EBK.
The court emphasized that these remedial classes should be aligned with the recommendations of the EBK. By adhering to these guidelines, the university aims to rectify the deficiencies in the education provided and ensure that the graduates meet the necessary criteria for registration as professional engineers.
Judge Mugambi’s ruling also highlighted the need for collaboration between Egerton University, the EBK, and the Commission for University Education (CUE). This cooperation is essential to regulate engineering courses and establish clear registration requirements, thereby avoiding future disputes and ensuring that graduates are adequately prepared for their professional roles.
Implications for Engineering Graduates
The court’s decision has significant implications for the affected Engineering graduates. It offers a pathway for them to rectify the shortcomings in their education and qualify for registration as professional engineers. This move not only safeguards the interests of the graduates but also upholds the integrity and standards of the engineering profession in Kenya.
However, the ruling also places a considerable responsibility on Egerton University. The institution must ensure that the remedial classes are of high quality and meet the standards set by the EBK. Failure to do so could result in further challenges for the graduates and potential legal consequences for the university.
Broader Impact on the Education Sector
The court’s directive to Egerton University serves as a cautionary tale for other educational institutions in Kenya. It underscores the importance of adhering to accreditation standards and the potential repercussions of offering unaccredited programs. This ruling is likely to prompt universities to review their courses and ensure compliance with the regulatory requirements.
Moreover, the collaboration between universities, regulatory bodies, and accreditation agencies is crucial in maintaining the quality of education and protecting the interests of students. This case highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the higher education sector.
Conclusion
The Milimani High Court’s decision to mandate remedial classes for Egerton University’s Engineering graduates is a significant step towards resolving the accreditation dispute. It provides a second chance for the graduates to fulfill their professional aspirations while emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards in engineering education. As Egerton University undertakes this corrective measure, it sets a precedent for other institutions to follow, ensuring that the integrity of engineering education in Kenya is upheld.
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