Matriculants warned against fly-by-night institutions

The Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism has issued a warning to Matriculants to remain vigilant of fly-by-night or bogus education institutions. The January/February period will see those who passed grade 12 being enrolled in different post-matric institutions.

But it has become a norm that some students and parents will fall victim to the bogus institutions masquerading as credible higher education centres.

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In a statement, LEDET says learners should contact relevant authorities to verify registration validations of any higher education services.

“LEDET advises consumers of higher education services to remain vigilant of fly-by-night or bogus institutions. Which mushroom for the sole purpose of making profits at the expense of innocent consumers who complete fake courses taught by quacks. Given counterfeit certificates presented as Diplomas, NQ4, NQ6 or any other nationally recognized qualification.

“Consumers of higher education services are encouraged to contact relevant authorities to verify registration validations of any new, unknown or dubious institution intending to sell higher education services. Most of these bogus institutions are accredited for certain programmes. Yet offer qualifications which are beyond their scope of accreditation. Their courses are usually completed in a short space of time. They will also constantly change premises to avoid being traced,” they said.

LEDET ISSUES WARNING AGAINST FLY-BY-NIGHT POST-MATRIC EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

“Fly-by-night institutions of higher learning usually thrive on poor preparations by matriculants who don’t apply on time. Low deposit fees, exploitations of un-qualifying matriculants to access higher education services. Also a limited number of students admitted at tertiary institutions.

“Consumers are further advised to refrain from enrolling or paying any registration fees to any institution. Which is also not registered or not recognized by the Department of Higher Education and Training.”