TUM meets the bill of health for ISO recertification.
This was the provisional verdict by representatives from quality firm SGS that pitched tent at the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) from Monday, February 17, to Friday, February 21, 2025, to conduct an ISO recertification audit for the University.
The aim was to assess whether the institution complies with the ISO 9001: 2015 standard.
The audit team led by Engineer David Mbindyo said they had not encountered any major non-compliances that can hamper recertification.
ISO 9001:2005 is an internationally recognized standard for Quality Management Systems (QMS). Achieving ISO 9001 certification demonstrates an organization's commitment to consistent quality, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction.
Recertification, typically required every three years, ensures that the QMS continues to comply with the standard and remains effective.
Addressing the TUM top management and staff during the exit meeting at the university’s administration conference room, SGS’s lead auditor Engineer David Mbindyo said: "We have not come across any major non-conformities during the audit."
This means TUM qualifies to be recertified.
“It has been a very busy week. We audited various offices and departments including the Vice Chancellor’s office, Registrar of Academics Affairs, Dean of Students, Accommodation, Library, Several academic departments and Kwale Site. I am happy to report that the processes are well adhered to, which is very commendable,” Eng. Mbindyo said.
The scope of certification included the design, development, and delivery of teaching, learning, research, and community service across all academic departments and support services.
In her speech, Vice Chancellor Prof Laila Abubakar stated that the aim of the Recertification Audit was to assess whether the Management System (MS) complied with audit criteria, evaluate the system’s ability to meet statutory, regulatory, and contractual requirements and to identify areas for improvements.
Prof Laila commended the TUM staff for making the exercise successful.
“This recertification process reinforces TUM’s commitment to quality education, environmental responsibility, and occupational health and safety standards”, the Vice Chancellor said.
A recertification audit occurs every three years from when the original certification audit was completed. During a three-year period, there are typically numerous organizational changes that happen within a company.
Part of the recertification audit is to ensure that the Quality Management System (QMS) has assessed and documented these changes appropriately and implemented any necessary training. Another reason for a recertification audit is to ensure companies incorporate changes to their QMS when ISO standards are updated.
The attendees included the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Administration Finance and Planning Prof Joseph Rasowo, Registrar of Academic Affairs Dr Cromwell Kibiti, Registrar of Administration and Planning Dr Shivani Patel, Director of Quality Assurance Dr Sylvia Mutua and Deans, Directors and Chairpersons from various Departments within the University.
