The controversy surrounding Didmus Barasa’s academic credentials raises a bigger question about Kenya’s political and public institutions: is he an isolated case, or simply one of the politicians whose qualifications have been exposed? With previous cases involving disputed or allegedly forged certificates, the issue goes beyond one individual. It highlights the need for stronger, transparent verification of academic credentials before anyone enters public office.
As Kenyan schools prepare to reopen for Term Three on August 24, new regulations on school hours, supervision and student welfare are intended to prevent a repeat of last term’s unrest, which affected more than 200 schools. But tighter rules alone may not be enough. The real test will be whether schools address the underlying causes of student frustration including academic pressure, living conditions, discipline and lack of meaningful communication. Term Three will reveal whether Kenya is creating genuinely safer schools or simply quieter ones.