The Minister of the Department of Higher Education, Dr. Blade Nzimande, cautions students and parents about unlawful or “fly-by-night” colleges.
The minister stated that these colleges are not registered with the appropriate Sector Education and Training Authorities (Setas), the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), or other relevant agencies.
Nzimande cautions students and parents against enrolling in these fly-by-night institutions.
Next week, these FIVE provinces will begin the school year for 2023.
“These institutions entice and mislead prospective students into believing that these colleges offer a qualification recognized by the South African Qualifications Authority” (Nzimande).
Illegal colleges offer substandard credentials that are not acceptable for employment or further study.
The minister stated that the department had previously been effective in shutting down these illicit businesses.
Additionally, the Gauteng health MEC wants teen mothers to return to school.
Nzimande notes that while the department may be diligently working to eliminate these fly-by-night universities, many students continue to enroll in them and are illegally issued fraudulent credentials.
“Over the years, the number of unauthorized colleges has reduced dramatically.
The decline is attributable to our monitoring of awareness initiatives and coordination with print and electronic media.The minister stated that the department collaborates closely with law enforcement agencies to shut down these institutions.
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Nzimande advises students who wish to enroll in private colleges to investigate the institution’s registration status.
The department’s toll-free number, 0800-872-222, can be used by students to contact it.
In the past few years, the government has shut down more than 40 unauthorized private schools.
»Minister Nzimande advises students against colleges that spring up overnight«