Cyprus commends Zimbabwe for deregistering illegal educational institutions that misled students. ZIMCHE removed several universities from its accredited list, including multiple from Cyprus and India. The University of Nicosia remains a legitimate institution despite recent issues with its license. The Indian Ambassador chose not to comment, deferring to Zimbabwean government decisions.
Cyprus has praised Zimbabwe for the action taken against diploma mills. The Cyprus Embassy acknowledged that several institutions recently discredited by the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE) operated illegally, impacting Zimbabwean students who sought academic opportunities in Cyprus.
In a recent decision, ZIMCHE deregistered several universities from Cyprus, such as Sharda University, Parul University, Girne American University, Near East University, University of Kyrenia, European University of Lefke, and University of Nicosia. Previously accredited by ZIMCHE, these institutions attracted numerous Zimbabwean students enrolled in their programs.
The local regulatory body highlighted concerns about these universities’ inability to provide internationally recognized qualifications. Nestoras Nestoros, Honorary Consul of Cyprus in Zimbabwe, stated that the deregistered institutions lacked recognition from Cyprus and many nations.
Nestoros explained, “Girne American University, Near East University, University of Kyrenia and the European University of Lefke are amongst illegal universities operating illegally in the occupied part of Cyprus in violation of relevant UNSC Resolutions. Degrees and any other certificates issued by these organisations are not recognised in most countries.”
He expressed relief that ZIMCHE has now rectified the situation by deregistering these institutions, emphasizing that thousands of Zimbabweans had been misled to believe in their legitimacy. However, Nestoros underscored the University of Nicosia as a legitimate institution, stating it is legally registered in Cyprus and ranks among the top 600 universities worldwide.
He further clarified that the university’s de-registration by ZIMCHE occurred due to an expired license in Zimbabwe, and the university is working to renew its registration. The institutions flagged by ZIMCHE also include Indian universities without credibility, including Sharda University and Parul University.
Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Bramha Kumar, refrained from commenting on the issue, stating that the decision regarding these universities is within the Zimbabwean government’s purview.
In conclusion, the recent actions taken by ZIMCHE to deregister several discredited universities signify a commendable step towards protecting Zimbabwean students from fraudulent institutions. While the status of the University of Nicosia remains valid and recognized, ongoing vigilance is necessary to ensure the credibility of educational partnerships. This incident underscores the importance of proper accreditation and the need for informed decisions among students seeking educational opportunities internationally.
Original Source: www.newsday.co.zw
