Seven higher learning institutions have been put in the red for not complying and meeting the required standards set by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology.
These institutions are instructed to step up or face the risk of losing government support.
The department has 12 international standards for universities and 10 for colleges to meet to be accredited and recognised locally and internationally.
“Once the institution meets the minimal standards, we accredit the institution and the programs and then TESAS (Tertiary Education Student Assistance Scheme) will be allocated,” says Fr Jan Czuba, the DHERST secretary.
Though the names of the institutions have not been disclosed, Fr Jan revealed that they failed to meet the set standards therefore will not receive Government assistance scholarships.
Fr Jan explained that they are coming down hard on these institutions to uphold the academic currency where qualifications acquired must be recognised internationally and by employers.
The department is working closely with these institutions to help them improve in order to raise the country’s academic currency and maintain the integrity of academia.
Higher Education Minister Pila Niningi said this is the government’s way of helping and ensuring credibility in higher learning institutions.