Fiji warned about fake overseas PhDs, seven cases reported

The Higher Education Commission Fiji (HECF) has received seven cases of fake PhDs (Doctor of Philosophy) from overseas institutions since 2008, with officials warning students and parents to verify qualifications before paying fees.
HECF director Eci Naisele revealed the alarming trend of bogus qualifications entering Fiji through online programmes offered by questionable overseas providers.
“We have a total of about seven over the years,” Mr Naisele said today.
“It’s an alarming issue because the way we are shifting, especially the world in terms of technology and bogus qualifications coming on board.”
The director said all seven cases involved overseas institutions, some of which offered online programmes without legitimate backing from recognised universities.
“Some of them may be online, but at the same time, after checking, there must be a real university somewhere for them to provide online training somewhere else in this part of the world,” Mr Naisele said.
The commission has established a five-step verification process to assess qualifications from overseas institutions. Officials verify whether the institution is registered with national agencies in its home country, whether programmes are properly accredited, if students were enrolled and completed their studies, and if awards were legitimately issued with proper seals and unique identification numbers.
Mr Naisele warned students and parents to exercise caution when considering overseas study options.
 “Because at the end of the day, they are the ones who will be paying for the fees,” he said. “Please do check and if not, then please do come and see us.”
The commission is located at the Red Cross building on Gorrie Street in Suva and works closely with immigration authorities to create safeguards at border entry points.
Students can also use search engines to verify institutions or visit the commission for assistance in validating the legitimacy of overseas education providers and their programmes.