Northwestern Christian University: Unpacking the Institution Behind Oscar Sudi’s Honorary Doctorate.
On Saturday, December 21, 2024, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi received an honorary Doctorate Degree in Leadership, Administration, and Management from Northwestern Christian University.
Earlier this year, Sudi was acquitted of forgery charges related to his academic credentials. His recognition highlighted his leadership and contributions to public service.
Another politician, Didmus Barasa, was also awarded an honorary degree, though he was honored in absentia.
Northwestern Christian University operates as a division of Christian Alliance Ministries. Established to assist the Christian community, it provides theologically accredited Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate Degrees across various fields.
The institution emphasizes Accelerated Online Christian education, allowing students to enroll and graduate at any time throughout the year.
To facilitate learning, the university offers free access to 50,000 e-books via its online library instead of requiring students to purchase textbooks.
The university was founded in 1980 by Howard M. Sarkela, who holds multiple advanced theological degrees, including PhD, Th.D., D.Min., and D.D. Sarkela currently serves as the Presiding Bishop of the institution. Since its inception, the university has focused on promoting accessible Christian education worldwide.
Accreditation and Controversy
The university’s website states it is theologically accredited by the International Association for Christian Educational Accountability (IACEA).
However, questions have been raised about the credibility of its programs. In June 2023, the Commission for University Education (CUE) in Kenya cautioned the public against enrolling in Northwestern Christian University and 13 other institutions.
CUE’s notice pointed out issues with accreditation, highlighting that certain programs, such as the Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Theology, were unaccredited.
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CUE warned that any institution offering university education in Kenya without proper accreditation is illegal and unauthorized. The warning flagged Northwestern Christian University for non-compliance with local regulatory standards.
It remains unclear whether the university has since addressed these concerns or received approval for its programs following the 2023 notice.
Northwestern Christian University: Unpacking the Institution Behind Oscar Sudi’s Honorary Doctorate.
