The integrity of Singapore’s workforce is under serious threat as authorities uncover fraudulent degrees linked to Indian private universities. 15 work pass holders are currently being investigated by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for allegedly using fake educational qualifications to secure jobs in Singapore. This alarming development has once again highlighted the growing issue of counterfeit degrees and the risks they pose to the economy and busines
📢 The Fake Degree Scandal in Singapore
According to reports, an Indian private university has been issuing fake degrees, allowing unqualified individuals to apply for high-paying jobs in Singapore. These individuals allegedly used their fraudulent certificates to obtain Employment Passes (EPs) and gain entry into the country’s professional workforce.
🔍 How the Scam Works:
- Individuals purchase fake degrees from an unauthorized university.
- They submit forged documents when applying for jobs in Singapore.
- Some agencies assist in fabricating work experience to pass employer checks.
- Once hired, these individuals take jobs meant for qualified professionals, impacting both local and foreign job seekers.
As a result of this ongoing investigation, MOM has tightened its verification processes and is actively monitoring employers who fail to properly check applicants’ credentials.
🔎 Fake Degrees – A Global Problem Affecting Businesses
This is not the first time Singapore has been affected by fake degree scandals. Over the years, several companies have unknowingly hired employees with invalid or unverified qualifications. Some firms claim they already have verification systems in place, but loopholes in checking foreign degrees remain a critical issue.
🌍 Countries Affected by Fake Degree Fraud:
✅ Singapore – Investigating work pass holders with fake degrees.
✅ UAE – Introduced Dh1 million fines and jail terms for using fake certificates.
✅ United States & UK – Cracked down on fraudulent online universities issuing bogus degrees.
🚫 The Consequences of Using Fake Degrees in Singapore
The Singapore government has taken a zero-tolerance approach to fraudulent qualifications. Individuals caught using fake degrees for work pass applications could face:
❌ Immediate revocation of work passes
❌ Deportation and a permanent work ban
❌ Legal action and hefty fines
❌ Employer penalties for negligence in hiring unverified candidates
MOM has strict verification guidelines to ensure all Employment Pass (EP) applicants have genuine and accredited educational backgrounds.
🏢 Employers Must Strengthen Verification Processes
Companies hiring foreign talent must ensure that every educational qualification is verified before offering employment. Negligence in checking qualifications could lead to severe legal and reputational risks.
✅ Steps Employers Must Take to Verify Educational Credentials:
1️⃣ Conduct background checks using official university databases.
2️⃣ Use government-approved verification agencies to authenticate degrees.
3️⃣ Cross-check work experience with previous employers.
4️⃣ Report any suspicious qualifications to MOM for further investigation.
Employers who fail to verify educational qualifications may also face penalties and hiring restrictions from the government.
📌 Conclusion: Education is Earned, Not Bought
The rise in fake degrees is not just an individual problem—it is a serious threat to Singapore’s employment systemand global workforce credibility. The crackdown on fraudulent qualifications must continue to protect honest professionals and ensure that only qualified individuals enter the workforce.
🚨 Warning to Job Seekers: Do not fall for fake degree scams—the risks are too high!
🚨 Advice to Employers: Verify before you hire—protect your business from legal trouble!
🔎 Have you come across fake degree fraud? Report it to the authorities immediately!
