Ruto Publicly Corrects Two CSs Over PhD Recognition Remarks at State House
There was a tense yet dramatic moment at State House on Tuesday after President William Ruto openly corrected Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba over remarks suggesting that prior learning could be used to qualify individuals for a PhD.
The incident took place during the first graduation ceremony of the National Intelligence and Research University in Nairobi.
The event, which was attended by senior government officials, academics, and graduands, had been proceeding smoothly until Interior CS Murkomen was invited to give his speech.
While addressing the gathering, Murkomen made light-hearted remarks about the academic regalia he had been issued for the ceremony.
He noted that while some leaders present, including the President, were wearing round motorboards — caps traditionally reserved for PhD holders — he had been given a square one.
The square motorboard is commonly worn by bachelor’s and master’s degree holders, while the round cap is typically associated with doctoral graduates.
Murkomen admitted that he was initially concerned when he noticed the difference in the caps.
“During discussions in the waiting room, I was very concerned because of the motorboard that I was given. I saw other people wearing a round one, but I was given a square one.
I was very concerned until I realised that round ones are given only to those who have attained their PhD,” he said, drawing laughter from some members of the audience.
Building on the lighter tone, Murkomen then turned to Education CS Julius Ogamba, who was also present at the event.
He jokingly urged him to consider introducing changes that would allow individuals with significant prior learning and contributions to society to be recognised in a way that could elevate their academic standing — possibly even to the level of earning a PhD.
He further remarked that since Ogamba has been advocating for the recognition of prior learning (RPL) in the education sector, perhaps such recognition could be expanded to allow people in their “category” to qualify for the round motorboard in future graduation ceremonies.
“So I asked Mr Ogamba, who is also in the same category as me and is the CS of Education, since he has been preaching about recognition of prior learning, to do something so that in the next graduation we can also wear something better than mine,” Murkomen added.
However, when President William Ruto rose to address the gathering, he took time to directly respond to the remarks made by the two Cabinet Secretaries.
After observing the formal protocol of greeting dignitaries present, the Head of State made it clear that the suggestion was not appropriate and could create the wrong impression about academic qualifications.
Ruto reminded the audience that he had previously served as Minister for Higher Education during the Grand Coalition government and was therefore well aware of the established academic procedures required to earn advanced degrees.
He stressed that the process of obtaining a PhD is rigorous and cannot be bypassed through alternative recognition methods such as prior learning.
“Allow me to assist my two Cabinet Ministers as a former Minister for Higher Education. The suggestion by Kipchumba Murkomen that you can change your status using recognition of prior learning (RPL), Mr Ogamba, is misleading, and it is not possible to get a PhD using that route. You will not succeed,” President Ruto clarified firmly.
He went on to emphasize that academic qualifications, especially at the doctoral level, require dedication, structured research, supervision, and adherence to strict institutional standards.
According to the President, no matter how accomplished an individual may be in other areas of life, there are no shortcuts when it comes to earning a PhD.
“It does not matter how much redemption you try; there are no shortcuts. You have to go through the process. I advise that next time you do what you have to do so that you can wear the right attire,” he added.
The President’s response quickly shifted the mood of the ceremony from light humour to a serious reminder about the integrity of academic qualifications.
His remarks underscored the importance of maintaining high standards in Kenya’s education system and protecting the credibility of university degrees.
The exchange has since sparked discussion among observers, with many noting the rare moment of public correction among top government officials.
While Murkomen’s initial comments appeared to be made in jest, the President’s firm clarification highlighted the government’s position that recognition of prior learning cannot replace the formal academic path required for doctoral studies.
The graduation ceremony continued after the brief exchange, but the moment stood out as one of the most memorable highlights of the event.
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