The MMC for Health, Tshegofatso Mashabela, has recently stated the metro’s intention to ensure unsuspecting students do not fall victim to fake colleges this year. The warning comes afterthe Public Servants Association (PSA)issued a similar statement, calling upon matriculants and their parents to properly vet higher institutions they are applying to or planning to attend before parting with their money. These illegal institutions often mimic legitimate colleges, utilising sophisticated marketing to mask their lack of accreditation fromthe Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
“We are going to monitor colleges operating in the CBD that rely only on flyers. There is no way a fish and chips shop can suddenly turn into an institution of higher learning in a week.” As the Class of 2025’s National Senior Certificate (NCS) results are being released soon, many students find themselves seeking placement in the capital city, which is home to the largest number of higher learning institutions nationally. Key red flags for these fraudulent institutions include temporary premises, demands for upfront payment, and lack of accreditation by bodies like the Council on Higher Education (CHE) or Umalusi.
Sergeant Thabang Nkhumise, spokesperson for Pretoria Central Police Station, had also recently cautioned students about phoney institutions or recruiters looking to take advantage of unsuspecting victims in and around the CBD. “The community is still urged to be more vigilant as there will be more influx of people who will be job seeking, registrations of colleges and universities, and also those who will be seeking accommodation. “Avoid carrying too much cash, and do not fall victim to bogus salespersons and institutions.
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Criminals in all forms will be scattered in the city trying to take advantage,” Nkhumise said. For assistance, one can dial08600 10111or122on any network provider and follow the prompts to report a crime. Alternatively, use the MySAPS app anonymously for whistleblowing, or directly call the station on012 353 5001.
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