University anomalies

If non-accredited ‘universities’ are operating without conforming to protocols, this debases entire structure.

Given the underfunded and frequently ramshackle state of higher education nationally, it is concerning to learn that there are 23 ‘universities’, most of them in the public sector, that are yet to be recognised or obtain a No Objection Certificate (NoC) from the Higher Education Commission (HEC). Why this is a matter of grave concern is that it cuts to the heart of the validity of any degree or certificate awarded by these unrecognised ‘universities’. It calls into question the quality or otherwise of the education they impart to students who attend in a reasonable expectation that they are studying for a valid and recognised qualification. All 23 have had their charters approved by parliament — under the previous government — but none of them yet have the accreditation necessary to validate them as fully-fledged universities with all the standard-setting and resources that are appropriate to a place of higher learning.

Further concern must be expressed that the list includes four federal universities, which are probably attended by thousands of students, whose degrees, if awarded, will be worth little or nothing in the outside world where employers today demand high standards and are increasingly selective about who they appoint and on what merit. It would appear that all of these institutions are relatively new and their charters granted in haste, without having first been to the HEC to obtain an NoC. In setting up a university, there are criteria laid down by the HEC which must be adhered to, and if non-accredited ‘universities’ are operating without conforming to a common set of protocols, this debases the entire higher education structure. Un-accredited ‘universities’ are not eligible for funding by the HEC and their degrees will not be attested. This matter requires the most urgent attention. There are tens of thousands of young people who may justifiably be very angry, if they find that at the end of their studies they have nothing in their hands but a piece of worthless paper.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 14^th, 2013.

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