The Cyprus Embassy confirmed the illegality of institutions recently deregistered by ZIMCHE. These include multiple universities from Cyprus and India, accused of providing unrecognized qualifications. The University of Nicosia remains a legitimate institution, despite its expired license in Zimbabwe, and is in the process of renewing it. The Indian Ambassador refrained from commenting on the deregistration decisions.
The Cyprus Embassy has confirmed the illegitimacy of certain educational institutions that were discredited by the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE). Many Zimbabwean students have historically sought higher education in Cyprus. Recent actions taken by ZIMCHE included the deregistration of numerous universities, such as Sharda University of India and Girne American University, on the grounds of failing to provide recognized qualifications.
Following the deregistration, Honorary Consul of Cyprus in Zimbabwe, Nestoras Nestoros, emphasized that these institutions were not acknowledged by Cyprus or other countries. He stated, “Degrees and any other certificates issued by these organizations are not recognised in most countries.” He also noted their operations were in violation of international resolutions.
Nestoros pointed out that ZIMCHE’s earlier accreditation of these entities misled thousands of Zimbabwean students into enrolling, but he commended the council for rectifying the situation by de-registering the institutions. He distinguished that the University of Nicosia remains a legitimate institution, despite its license in Zimbabwe having expired, and ranks within the top 600 globally.
He elaborated that the University of Nicosia is officially registered in Cyprus, is recognized internationally, and accommodates numerous Zimbabwean students. While its previous registration in Zimbabwe lapsed, Nestoros mentioned that the university is in the process of renewing its registration to facilitate future enrollments. Furthermore, ZIMCHE has identified other dubious institutions, including two Indian universities, yet Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Bramha Kumar, refrained from commenting on the issue, indicating it is for the Zimbabwean government to address.
In summary, the Cyprus Embassy has supported the actions of ZIMCHE to blacklist numerous unaccredited educational institutions operating in Cyprus, which misled Zimbabwean students. While institutions such as the University of Nicosia remain legitimate, the deregistration of others underscores the importance of ensuring credible educational pathways for students. This situation highlights the need for continued collaboration and vigilance in educational regulations.
Original Source: www.newsday.co.zw
