Limpopo warns learners against bogus colleges
The Limpopo Department of Economic Development is urging learners to verify an institution's accreditation to avoid enrolling in fraudulent colleges.
LIMPOPO – Serious concerns have been raised about the increasing number of unscrupulous educational institutions targeting young people.
Gr 12 learners from 2025, as well as previous matriculants seeking further education and training, are advised to remain alert and avoid enrolling at unlawful institutions that operate outside South Africa’s legal and regulatory framework.
Unregistered colleges target new matriculants
The Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (Ledet) has warned that unregistered and bogus colleges often take advantage of the uncertainty that follows the matric examination period, particularly in January and February.
During this time, learners and parents are frequently misled by false promises of quick admissions, guaranteed qualifications, and employment prospects.
These institutions claim to offer educational services without complying with the requirements of relevant statutory bodies, guidelines, and regulations. As a result, many learners are issued with qualifications that are not recognised and cannot be used for employment or further study.
Consequences of enrolling at fake institutions
Ledet said that enrolling at fly-by-night institutions carries severe consequences. These include issuing fake or unaccredited qualifications, charging exorbitant fees for programmes with no recognised value, refusing to refund registration fees, and exposing the public to safety risks due to poorly trained and incompetent graduates.
As the custodian of consumer protection, departmental spokesperson Zaid Kalla urged prospective students to verify the legitimacy of institutions before making any payments. Learners are advised to confirm accreditation directly with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
Kalla further emphasised that legally registered institutions are required by law to openly disclose all programme costs, including registration and tuition fees, and that no hidden charges should be imposed on students.
“Prospective applicants are urged to research institutions thoroughly, verify their registration status with the Department of Higher Education and Training, and carefully review refund policies before enrolling,” said Kalla.
