The Fiji Higher Education Commission (FHEC) is amplifying its efforts to scrutinize foreign qualifications as part of its commitment to uphold the integrity of the nation’s education system and workforce. This meticulous process, led by Director Dr. Eci Naisele, includes a stringent five-step verification protocol, particularly emphasizing qualifications from Asia and Africa.
Dr. Naisele explains the initial verification step involves confirming whether the educational institution is registered with the national agency in the country of origin and whether its programs hold necessary accreditation. This is followed by verifying the student’s enrollment and study duration, ensuring that requirements such as the typical three to four-year duration for degree programs are met.
Completing the verification process also involves confirming the successful completion of the program and the official awarding of the qualification. A significant final step entails the authentication of the certificate, which should include a unique identifier, akin to a birth registration number.
Moreover, the FHEC is collaborating with governments in countries like Indonesia and Malaysia. This partnership is crucial given the rising number of Fijian students pursuing education in these nations. The FHEC is also considering introducing unique identifiers for local qualifications to combat fraud and ensure that only authentic certificate holders are recognized.
Established under the Higher Education Act of 1978, the Commission has been operational for over 17 years and continues to evolve to meet the challenges facing the education sector. This includes addressing the pressing need for educational inclusivity and ensuring that credentials awarded are of genuine value in securing employability and further educational opportunities.
Dr. Naisele’s remarks support a larger narrative observed in Fiji’s educational strategy, as seen in previous initiatives highlighted by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Fiji. The shift from non-accredited micro-credentials to nationally recognized qualifications aligns with the country’s focus on developing a competent workforce, as well as on increasing access to education through vocational training and international student attractions, known as “education tourism.”
These efforts highlight a promising trajectory towards a robust educational framework in Fiji, poised to support both local aspirations and broader national development. The commitment to ensuring the authenticity and quality of qualifications reflects Fiji’s larger objective of fostering a more skilled and employable workforce, which is crucial for the country’s growth and prosperity.