- Introduction
Bogus institutions which are also known as “fly-by-night’’ or “unregistered institutions’’ are institutions that are not registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) or accredited with the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETA) / the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) / UMALUSI / the Council on Higher Education (CHE) to offer post school qualifications as required by law. This means that such institutions are operating illegally. An institution may be registered with the Department, but not accredited to offer some of the qualifications they claim to offer.
- Avoiding Bogus Colleges
It very important for an individual to verify the registration status of a private institution before enrolling for any programme. This is mainly because the certificates issued by Bogus Colleges are not recognised by the state authorities, do not allow for access, mobility, progression, career pathing and personal development. Verification may be done through:
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Learners can ask at the institution they intend to study with for the certificate of registration as issued by the Department. On the registration certificate, they must look out for the name of the institution, registered programmes, site(s) of delivery, registration number, and period of registration.
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Leaners can call the Department on toll-free 0800 87 2222.
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Learners may visit the website: http://www.dhet.gov.za/SitePages/DocRegisters.aspx to have access to the register of PHEIs, Private Colleges and a list Accredited Skills Development Providers.
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May contact the Career Advice Services at 072 204 5056 / 086 999 0123 / E-mail: careerhelp@dhet.gov.za / Facebook: www.facebook.com/careerhelp / Twitter: www.twitter.com/rsacareerhelp / Mobile Site: mobi.careerhelp.org.za / Website: www.careerservice.org.za / National Career Advice Portal: http://ncap.careerhelp.org.za / Walk-In Service at 123 Francis Baard Street, Pretoria, (Mon-Fri: 08h00 to 16h30).
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Learners are also encouraged to apply on time for admission to public universities and colleges and take full advantage of the APPLY NOW CAMPAIGN of the Department.
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If a learner did not perform well both in their grade 12 or other entry level qualifications, they are advised and encouraged to seek genuine and legit remedial steps or processes that will enable them to effectively progress career wise.
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If it turns out that the qualification is in fact not legitimate, learners are encouraged to de-register immediately and ask for a refund. They may also inform the Department and open the case with the South African Police Service (SAPS) immediately.
Compiled by Charity Kanyane