HEC Issues Warning Against Degree Equivalence Fraud

By The Inspirer.

The Higher Education Council (HEC) has mandated that individuals seeking equivalence for degrees obtained abroad must now provide a ‘Valid Residency Permit,’ known as ‘Permis de Résidence,’ instead of the previously accepted ‘Attestation de Résidence’ (proof of residence). This new requirement aims to combat the use of forged or illegal documents.

A residency permit is a document required in some countries, allowing a foreign national to reside in the country for a fixed or indefinite period. Previously, applicants for degree equivalences would present an ‘Attestation de Résidence’ obtained after completing their studies. However, HEC’s recent warning, made public on Sunday, July 21, highlights that these documents have been frequently forged in various countries.

As a result, HEC now requires a valid residency permit for all applications for qualification equivalences. The Council’s responsibilities include issuing equivalence certificates for foreign qualifications such as degrees, diplomas, and certificates obtained from universities or higher learning institutions abroad.

“Due to several inconsistencies and irregularities observed in academic documents (degrees and academic transcripts) and travel documents for the study period (Visa and Resident Permit) submitted for equivalences by graduates from different awarding countries, HEC has doubts about their authenticity. Therefore, the Higher Education Council informs the public that all applicants must provide a Valid Residency Permit or ‘Permis de Résidence’ instead of the ‘Attestation de Résidence’ offered post-studies,” stated HEC in an announcement.

HEC also emphasized that anyone found using forged or illegal documents will face legal consequences. The Council advises the public to exercise caution when applying for equivalences for qualifications obtained abroad.

This warning comes amid numerous complaints about delays in obtaining degree equivalences from abroad. In February, HEC explained that the application process requires document submission through the Irembo platform. Once accepted, HEC contacts the respective university to confirm the applicant’s presence, with delays often occurring when universities take time to respond, leading to perceived delays from HEC.

Challenges also arise from incomplete or insufficient documents submitted by applicants, who are notified through the Irembo system to make necessary corrections. Additionally, the closure of schools in neighboring countries has led to doubts about some claims of study.

HEC has also encountered cases of forgery, where applicants who failed to obtain travel clearance resorted to forging residence permits. Collaborations with other institutions may lead to investigations for the use of forged documents.

Verifying the authenticity of degrees poses another significant challenge, especially when immigration records indicate that individuals claiming to have attended classes physically “never travelled.” Such discrepancies prompt further investigation, according to HEC.

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