The Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) has issued a stern warning to Northwestern Christian University-Kenya after receiving multiple complaints about the misuse of the professional title “Engineer” in an honorary doctorate certificate awarded to Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi during the university’s 17th graduation ceremony on December 21, 2024.
The EBK confirmed that the inclusion of the title “Eng.” on Sudi’s honorary degree was unauthorized and violated the Engineers Act, 2011, which reserves the use of the title “Eng.” for professional and consulting engineers registered with the Board. Sections 26(1) and (2) of the Act explicitly prohibit the use of engineering titles by unregistered individuals, making the issuance of such certificates illegal.
In a swift response, the EBK has written to Northwestern Christian University-Kenya, instructing the institution to recall the honorary degree certificates and remove the title “Eng.” from the documents. The university has been advised to issue corrected certificates to ensure compliance with the law.
The misuse of professional titles is seen as a serious infringement that undermines the integrity of the engineering profession, and penalties for such violations are clearly outlined under Sections 26(3) and 47(2) of the Engineers Act.
The EBK emphasized that the unauthorized use of the “Eng.” title is not only a violation of the Act but also a breach of ethical standards within the profession. The Board has expressed its commitment to maintaining the standards and credibility of the engineering sector in Kenya.
The move follows growing concerns over the awarding of honorary titles that do not meet professional criteria, and the EBK’s actions reflect its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the engineering profession in Kenya.
Signed:
Eng. Margaret Ogai, CE
Registrar/Chief Executive Officer
ENGINEERS BOARD OF KENYA
