In a significant development, Magadh University in Bodh Gaya, Bihar, has uncovered a fraudulent PhD degree racket involving two of its assistant professors. The scam came to light after social media posts surfaced, showing the accused, Kailash Prasad and Vishnu Shankar Singh, participating in a doctorate award ceremony in Yangon, Myanmar, on September 29. During this event, at least 11 Myanmar nationals were conferred with PhD degrees.
University officials, upon discovering these posts, promptly filed a First Information Report (FIR) against the two professors. Vice-Chancellor Shashi Pratap Shahi stated that while there had been longstanding rumors about such fraudulent activities, concrete evidence only emerged through these online posts. He emphasized that Magadh University does not confer honorary PhDs and noted that the unauthorized degrees lacked his signature.
Both accused professors are currently absconding following the FIR registration. The university has initiated an internal investigation to determine the extent of the racket, including the duration of its operation and the number of illegitimate degrees issued. Preliminary findings suggest that individuals from other Buddhist-majority countries, such as Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, may also have been targeted or involved in this scheme.
This incident underscores the pervasive issue of academic fraud and highlights the crucial role of social media in exposing such malpractices. The university is collaborating with law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough investigation and to uphold the integrity of its academic credentials.
Historical Instances of Degree Fraud
This is not the first time Magadh University has faced such allegations. In 2018, the Higher Education Commission of Thailand rejected 40 PhD degrees awarded by the university to Thai nationals, citing concerns over their legitimacy. This incident prompted the university to scrutinize its processes and implement stricter measures to prevent future occurrences.
Additionally, in 2023, the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau in Himachal Pradesh filed charges against 15 teachers who had secured employment in the state’s Education Department using fake degrees purportedly obtained from Magadh University. Investigations revealed that these individuals were never enrolled at the university, and their certificates were counterfeit.
Implications and the Need for Vigilance
These recurring incidents highlight systemic vulnerabilities within academic institutions and underscore the necessity for robust verification mechanisms. The proliferation of fake degrees not only undermines the credibility of educational establishments but also devalues the achievements of genuine scholars.
To combat this menace, it is imperative for universities to:
Implement Stringent Verification Processes: Regular audits and verification of credentials can help in identifying and eliminating fraudulent activities.
Enhance Digital Security: Adopting secure, digital certification methods can reduce the risk of forgery.
Collaborate with Law Enforcement: Establishing a close working relationship with investigative agencies can aid in the swift detection and prosecution of offenders.
Maintaining the sanctity of academic qualifications is crucial for the advancement of education and the betterment of society. Institutions must remain vigilant and proactive to ensure that their degrees reflect genuine merit and accomplishment.
A fake degree may buy a job, but it cannot buy knowledge, integrity, or a future without fear.
