On Saturday, December 21, 2024, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi was conferred an honorary Doctorate Degree in Leadership, Administration, and Management by Northwestern Christian University. This recognition celebrated his leadership and contributions to public service, coming just months after his acquittal of forgery charges related to his academic credentials.
In addition to Sudi, politician Didmus Barasa was also honored with an honorary degree, albeit in absentia.
About Northwestern Christian University
Northwestern Christian University, a division of Christian Alliance Ministries, specializes in providing theologically accredited Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate Degrees across diverse fields. Established in 1980 by Howard M. Sarkela—who holds multiple advanced theological degrees and serves as the institution’s Presiding Bishop—the university focuses on making Christian education accessible globally.
The university emphasizes flexibility through its Accelerated Online Christian education model, allowing students to enroll and graduate year-round. Instead of traditional textbooks, learners gain free access to over 50,000 e-books through the institution’s online library.
Accreditation and Controversy
Northwestern Christian University claims theological accreditation through the International Association for Christian Educational Accountability (IACEA). However, its credibility has been called into question.
In June 2023, Kenya’s Commission for University Education (CUE) issued a public advisory against Northwestern Christian University and 13 other institutions, citing concerns about accreditation. Programs such as the Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Theology were flagged as unaccredited, with CUE emphasizing that offering university-level education in Kenya without proper accreditation is illegal.
The advisory highlighted the institution’s non-compliance with local regulatory standards. It remains unclear whether the university has since addressed these concerns or obtained approval for its programs following the 2023 notice.
Looking Ahead
While Oscar Sudi’s recognition brings attention to his public service achievements, it also casts a spotlight on Northwestern Christian University’s contested reputation. The institution’s journey toward resolving its accreditation issues will be pivotal in shaping its future and the perception of its academic credentials.
