Recognition of Foreign Qualifications Back Home
Nazlin BuddyAcademics & Study Tips
Are all foreign degrees acceptable back in Kenya?
I've always wondered.
It would seem natural that they would all get accepted, especially since many people believe there are better education systems abroad compared to local institutions.
But that is not always the case.
While some are recognised some are not.
Recognition of foreign qualifications is a formal process, often conducted by national authorities.
Before acceptance graduates usually need recognition or equation from the Commission for University Education (CUE).
The CUE evaluates whether the degree is equivalent to the Kenyan education standards then from there determines whether it can be recognised.
However,for some courses like medicine and engineering,CUE recognition alone is not enough.
Professional bodies must also approve of the qualifications through board examination, training and, internships
The specific bodies involved are Kenya Medical Practitioner and Dentist Council for the doctors and Engineers Board of Kenya for the Engineers.
Another key institution involved in qualification recognition is the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA).
KNQA works to align different qualifications with the Kenya National Qualifications Framework, ensuring that foreign credentials match the appropriate level in Kenya’s education system.
The KNQA also ensures legality.
Internationally,there are also other jurisdictions like ENIC-NARIC organization that provide framework for recognizing qualifications across Europe.
Also, students planning to study abroad should ensure the institution they enroll in is locally recognised by relevant authorities. Unaccredited institutions make it difficult to proceed further in recognition, certification and even post graduate studies.
When applying for recognition, graduates are required to provide:
• Academic transcripts
• Degree certificates
• Proof of accreditation of the university
• Sometimes course details or curriculum
Since it is a procedural process involving certification and verification by the authorities, incomplete documents can delay the process and it is also advisable to start the process early.
In conclusion, studying abroad can open a lot of doors but with the right information.
Students applying should research on the institution of interest to check if it is recognised back in their country to avoid future frustrations.


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