The IFP Youth Brigade implores the Grade 12 Class of 2014 to be vigilant during this time as they seek to register for higher education. It is a known reality that South Africa is riddled with all sorts of corruption and fraud, and scam-masters are preying on the desperation of Grade 12 learners who want to further their education by setting bogus and ghost colleges, which are a money making scheme, rooted in robbing innocent, vulnerable and unknowing learners and parents.
We urge the Class of 2014 to verify the accreditation and registration of any institution before paying any money. Their positive drive to study should not cloud their judgement. We are pleading with learners and parents to be vigilant and thorough in their background checks of these institutions which pop up during this period, making very bold promises, because they are nothing but fleecing fly-by-night institutions hell bent on taking advantage of poor and desperate people.
We challenge the Department of Higher Education and Training to publish a comprehensive list of all accredited institutions of higher education in all the major newspapers to assist and protect learners and parents from these vultures.
Other means to communicate must be utilised such as social networks and other mainstream media. The department would do well to also set up a free app in this regard.
Issued by:
Mkhuleko Hlengwa, MP, IFPYB Chairperson, 076 521 3221
