Rédaction Africa Links 24 with DAVIS AYEGA
Published on 2024-02-21 09:35:20
In a recent development, human resource professionals in Nairobi, Kenya have been urged to conduct thorough due diligence and background checks amidst a growing trend of job seekers using fake academic credentials to secure employment. Margaret Kinyanjui, the Principal of the College of Human Resource Management, stressed the importance of addressing this issue promptly to prevent both private and public sectors from being infiltrated by individuals with fraudulent qualifications.
A report from the Public Service Commission (PSC) released on February 13, 20243, revealed that over 2,000 public servants in Kenya were found to be holding forged academic and professional qualifications. This alarming discovery underscores the need for HR professionals to adhere to proper recruitment procedures and verify the authenticity of candidates’ credentials.
During an interview on Capital in the Morning Show with Wanjira Longauer, Kinyanjui emphasized the importance of following the right rules in the recruitment process. She acknowledged the prevalence of fraudsters in the workforce and highlighted the role of human resource personnel in preventing such individuals from being hired.
The investigation conducted by the PSC in 2022 focused on various ministries, state departments, and semi-autonomous government agencies, revealing a significant number of individuals with fake credentials. Kinyanjui expressed regret over the presence of fraudsters in the workforce, pointing out that these incidents could have been avoided through rigorous background checks during the recruitment process.
She recommended outsourcing background checks to specialized organizations and stressed the importance of line managers having sufficient skills within the human resources departments to prevent the employment of fraudsters. The Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) is currently investigating individuals with fake credentials and working to recover unlawfully acquired assets and gains.
Those implicated in fraudulent activities will face consequences such as being deprived of benefits like pensions, allowances, or leave. Kinyanjui commended the vigilance of human resource professionals who have graduated from the College of Human Resource Management and continue to detect and eliminate fraudsters during recruitment.
Since taking the helm in 2014, Kinyanjui has led the institution with a focus on nurturing human capital for effective people management in both the public and private sectors. The College of Human Resource Management, established in 1997, plays a crucial role in developing skilled HR practitioners who are adept at identifying and preventing fraudulent practices in the workplace.
In conclusion, the issue of fake academic credentials in the job market is a serious concern that requires immediate attention from HR professionals. By prioritizing thorough due diligence and background checks, organizations can safeguard their workforce from individuals with fraudulent qualifications and uphold the integrity of the recruitment process.
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