The University of Embu has become the first public institution in Kenya to achieve Certification to ISO 27001:2013 and Re-certification to ISO 9001:2015.
The University Vice Chancellor Prof Daniel Mugendi lauded the certification noting that it will greatly transform the University.
“The journey to recertification ISO 9001:2015 was not a walk in the park. This is a major accomplishment for the University. I strongly believe transiting from ISO 9001:2008 QMS to ISO 9001:2015 and certification to ISMS based on 27001:2013 standards will transform the University of Embu and elevate its rank,” said Mugendi.
The ISO 9001:2015 standardization which has replaced the ISO 9001:2008 is awarded after a successful audit by Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).
ISO 9001 is the international standard that specifies requirements for a quality management system (QMS). Organizations use the standard to demonstrate the ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer and regulatory requirements.
According to KEBS, key components of the new standard include its scope, quality policy, quality objectives, six main processes, 32 sub processes and 81 procedures.
The new standard is customer focused and hence institutions and organizations being awarded the standard have put great emphasis on ensuring that customers are happy. Service delivery is paramount and customer complaints and criticism are addressed accordingly.
The customer focused standard will bring immense benefits to the University, key among them being better process integration, improved evidence for decision making, creating a continual improvement culture, engagement of staff, improvement of customer satisfaction and improvement in the credibility and image of the university.
The University of Embu is set to hold its third graduation ceremony on September 14 2018.
