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The University Grants Commission (UGC), under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, has issued an important public advisory to students, parents, and the general public regarding the validity of degrees and the recognition of universities and institutions offering academic programs. This notice is aimed at safeguarding the integrity of higher education in India and protecting individuals from fraudulent institutions.
Key Highlights of the Notice
Eligibility to Award Degrees
- Degrees can only be awarded by universities or institutions established under a State Act, Central Act, or Provincial Act, or institutions specifically empowered to confer degrees as per the UGC Act, 1956.
- Any degree awarded by an institution not recognized by the UGC will be considered invalid for higher education or employment purposes.
Rising Concerns
- The UGC has observed a growing number of unrecognized institutions offering degrees in violation of the UGC Act.
- Such practices not only undermine the credibility of the education system but also jeopardize students’ futures.
Advice to Stakeholders
- Students and Parents: Before enrolling in any institution, verify its recognition status through the UGC’s official website: www.ugc.ac.in.
- Employers and Institutions: Ensure that degrees submitted for employment or higher studies are from recognized universities.
Reporting Violations
- If any university or institution is found to be offering degrees or academic programs in violation of the UGC Act, stakeholders are encouraged to report it to the UGC.
- Violations can be reported via email at ugcampc@gmail.com for prompt action.
RKDF University Officials Arrested in Fake Degree Certificate Scam
In a significant crackdown on academic fraud, Hyderabad police have arrested the current Vice-Chancellor, former Vice-Chancellor, and a principal of an engineering college associated with RKDF University in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into a fake degree certificate scam that has implicated several educational institutions.
Background of the Investigation
- In February 2022, Hyderabad police dismantled a network involved in the distribution of counterfeit degree certificates, leading to the arrest of ten individuals, including an assistant professor from Sarvepalli Radhakrishna University in Bhopal. The investigation revealed that the accused targeted students who had either failed or were unable to complete their education, offering them fraudulent degrees for substantial sums of money.
Details of the Scam
Stay informed. Verify credentials. Protect your academic future.
The accused had established a structured pricing system for various degrees:
- Engineering (B.Tech): ₹3 lakh
- Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) and Bachelor of Arts (B.A.): ₹1.5 lakh
- Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.): ₹1.75 lakh
- Master of Business Administration (MBA): ₹2.75 lakh
These fraudulent activities not only deceived numerous students but also severely undermined the integrity of the educational system.
Arrests and Legal Proceedings
Acting on the findings, Hyderabad police, with assistance from local authorities, apprehended the current and former Vice-Chancellors, along with a principal from an engineering college under RKDF University. The officials were transported to Hyderabad for further interrogation and will be presented before a court to face charges related to the scam.
