By Chisomo Phiri
Minister of Higher Education Jessie Kabwila says the government is taking concrete steps to tackle the growing issue of honorary doctorates, degrees, and professorships to safeguard the country’s education standards.
The minister said this during a press briefing at Capital Hill in Lilongwe.
To achieve the goal,Kabwila said the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) is developing a National Qualification Framework to standardize degrees and higher education qualifications
The minister added that a Higher Education bill is being drafted to introduce inspections in higher education institutions and clarify the legality of employing individuals with fake qualifications.
She stressed that honorary degrees should not be misused.
Said Kabwila:”If someone received an honorary degree, they must not be addressed as Doctor or Professor.”
The minister also highlighted recent actions taken against non-compliant institutions, including the de-registration of the African University of Diplomacy, Counseling and International Relations.
She then advised the public to follow proper guidelines on the award and use of honorary degrees, as published by NCHE.
On his part, NCHE Chief Executive Officer (CEO ) Ambumulire Phiri,reiterated the council’s commitment to registering and accrediting institutions that meet minimum standards, ensuring the quality of higher education in the country.
