Umalusi concerned about rise in bogus tertiary institutions and qualifications

JOHANNESBURG - Quality assurance body Umalusi has warned South Africans not to fall victim to bogus tertiary institutions.

It announced a rise in fake qualifications, either bought from fraudsters or received through unaccredited private institutions.

Eleven suspects were arrested for being behind the illegal practice.

A Department of Higher Education employee, who was handcuffed recently, is facing a charge of corruption for issuing a diploma certificate in exchange for cash.

"Umalusi is seriously concerned about the mushrooming of bogus institutions, as well as people using fake qualifications," said Umalusi spokesperson Biki Lepota.

"In order to cap the practice, Umalusi advises all employers to ensure they periodically verify the qualifications of their employees."