The Federal Government of Nigeria has embarked on a comprehensive probe of private universities established in the last 15 years, following revelations of certificate racketeering in neighboring countries. This investigation marks a significant step towards ensuring the integrity and credibility of higher education institutions in the country.
Uncovering Certificate Racketeering:
The probe was initiated in response to an investigative report by Umar Audu of Daily Nigerian, which exposed rampant certificate racketeering in Benin Republic and Togo. The report shed light on the ease with which individuals could obtain degrees within a remarkably short period, raising concerns about the authenticity of qualifications obtained from certain institutions.
Scope of the Investigation:
A total of 107 private universities established within the last 15 years are under scrutiny by the Inter-Ministerial Investigative Committee on Degree Certificate Milling. The committee’s mandate includes evaluating the facilities, management structures, funding mechanisms, and staffing profiles of these institutions to ascertain their compliance with regulatory standards.
Public Participation:
As part of the investigative process, the Federal Government has invited memoranda from the general public to provide relevant information to the committee. This inclusive approach underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing the issue of fake degrees and degree mills.
Ensuring Regulatory Compliance:
The probe is being conducted in collaboration with regulatory bodies such as the National Universities Commission (NUC), which periodically accredits universities and monitors their operations. The committee’s findings will complement existing accreditation processes and serve as a crucial mechanism for safeguarding the quality and credibility of higher education in Nigeria.
Addressing Systemic Challenges:
Inaugurating the Inter-Ministerial Committee on fake degrees and activities of degree mills, Minister of Education Prof. Tahir Mamman emphasized the need to review existing rules, procedures, and processes governing the recognition and accreditation of foreign universities and programs. The committee’s mandate includes identifying lapses in regulatory oversight and recommending measures to prevent recurrence.
Ensuring Accountability:
The committee is tasked with examining the roles of relevant government agencies and officials in facilitating the recognition and procurement of fake certificates. By holding accountable those implicated in fraudulent activities, the government aims to deter future misconduct and uphold the integrity of the education sector.
Strengthening Quality Assurance:
In addition to addressing immediate concerns related to fake degrees, the probe seeks to strengthen the system of recognition, accreditation, and quality assurance of degrees in Nigeria. By enhancing regulatory mechanisms and implementing stricter oversight measures, the government aims to foster a culture of excellence and integrity in higher education.
Enhancing Regulatory Frameworks:
The committee’s recommendations will inform revisions to existing rules, procedures, and processes governing the establishment and operation of universities in Nigeria. By refining regulatory frameworks and enforcing compliance standards, the government aims to prevent the proliferation of unapproved institutions and ensure that only institutions meeting stringent criteria are granted licenses.
Promoting Transparency:
Through its commitment to transparency, accountability, and public participation, the Federal Government demonstrates its resolve to tackle the scourge of fake degrees and degree mills head-on. By engaging stakeholders and soliciting input from the public, the government seeks to foster a collaborative approach to addressing systemic challenges in the education sector.
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Credit:Betsy Iffechukwude