NQA warns against fake colleges

The Namibia Qualifications Aut

hority (NQA) says it is reviewing its enabling Act to give it the power to act against fake educational institutions that rob people of time and money.

According to the authority's manager for marketing and communications, Catherine Shipushu, many desperate Namibians are falling prey to these fake institutions but the NQA does not have the power to shut them down.

Shipushu was speaking during an information-sharing session at the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair.

Shipushu warned Namibians - especially the youth - that before they enrol at any educational institution, whether local or international, they must first research its background to avoid wasting their time and money.

“Some of these institutions are fake. They are either not accredited or, if accredited, some of their courses are not accredited. We have a list of all the accredited institutions in Namibia and their accredited courses,” Shipushu said.

She said the only thing the NQA could do at the moment was to advise the public not to enrol with such institutions.

“Fake institutions really concern us, especially when we have to inform you that your qualification is not what you thought it was. There are many education opportunities being offered on social media. They are very good, but one needs to be do research before enrolling or going to other countries to study,” she said.

She said many Namibians have fake qualifications and it is a serious concern. She said the NQA would soon launch an outreach programme to inform Namibians of the danger of enrolling at fake institutions and being in possession of fake qualifications.

ILENI NANDJATO