As time for admission to college is approaching with most central and state boards, including Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) having completed examinations for classes 10 and 12, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has once again warned students against dozens of fake educational institutions operating in the country. The statutory body, which releases list of “self-styled” unrecognised colleges, universities and institutions from time to time, said that it had identified 27 such higher educational institutions in the last two years. More are expected to be added to the list soon as it had recently issued notices against a few institutions. The UGC and All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) have also issued joint advisory warning Indian students not to pursue education in Pakistan, saying that it won’t be eligible for taking admission for high studies and job in India. It may also be recalled that the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) had last year listed as many as 116 “unrecognised” education boards across the country. All these advisories have one thing in common, that is, degree certificates awarded by educational establishments black-listed by UGC, AICTE and IGNOU won’t have any value, be it for further education or job. However, despite the release of advisories to make students aware of fraudulent practices in the education sector, many still fall victim to such scamsters.
Sadly, students from rural areas who go to cities and towns in the hope of getting quality education are affected more by this scam. There are also instances where young minds from the Northeast are duped by fake colleges, especially institutions that offer professional courses like nursing and engineering. Many bright students end up shattering their dream, causing disappointment and mental trauma. We can’t afford to let youngsters spoil their future this way. Parents and students should thoroughly verify whether the concerned educational institution they want to seek admission is recognised by the UGC. Such basic precautionary measure can keep fraudsters at bay. In the meantime, the UGC checks fake universities through its Anti Malpractice Cell by asking the concerned state authorities to take necessary action against institutions that function in contravention of the UGC Act, 1956, but the failure to stop the menace tells that the central and state governments should intervene. Stern action also should be taken against education consultancies that get students admitted to fake colleges. However, for long-term solution and social benefit, the government should set up educational institutions that offer various courses – humanities, professional, and more. It will not only cater to the needs of students in the state but also help curb economic drain.
