The Cyprus Embassy has praised ZIMCHE for deregistering several discredited universities operating illegally, including institutions from Cyprus and India. Many Zimbabwean students had been enrolled in these now-blacklisted universities. The University of Nicosia remains a legitimate entity, while concerns about the credibility of other universities persist.
The Cyprus Embassy has acknowledged the recent actions by the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE) to blacklist various diploma mills operating illegally. This decision comes as many Zimbabwean students have sought educational opportunities in Cyprus. Last week, ZIMCHE deregistered several institutions from Cyprus, which were previously accredited, including Sharda University, Parul University, Girne American University, Near East University, University of Kyrenia, European University of Lefke, and University of Nicosia.
ZIMCHE cited concerns over the failure of these institutions to provide valid international academic qualifications. Honorary Consul of Cyprus in Zimbabwe, Nestoras Nestoros, emphasized that many of the deregistered universities were not recognized by Cyprus or other nations, stating that they operated in violation of relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions, rendering their qualifications invalid.
Nestoros pointed out the unfortunate situation where ZIMCHE had accredited these institutions in the past, resulting in thousands of Zimbabwean students attending these deregistered universities. However, he expressed appreciation for ZIMCHE’s corrective action, which rectified previous injustices.
Contrarily, the University of Nicosia, which has an expired license in Zimbabwe, is legally recognized in Cyprus and noted as a reputable institution. Nestoros assured that despite the expired registration, the university, which ranks among the top 600 globally, continues to be legitimate and aims to renew its registration in Zimbabwe.
Additionally, ZIMCHE has flagged several universities from India, including Sharda University and Parul University, for issues concerning their credibility. However, Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Bramha Kumar, refrained from commenting, stating the decision rests with the Zimbabwean government.
The recent blacklisting of several diploma mills by ZIMCHE marks a significant step towards ensuring the integrity of academic qualifications for Zimbabwean students. Institutions such as the University of Nicosia remain legally recognized, emphasizing the importance of legitimate accreditation. The situation highlights the critical need for students to seek accredited institutions to avoid the pitfalls of fraudulent educational entities.
Original Source: www.newsday.co.zw
