THE Cyprus Embassy has confirmed that learning institutions recently discredited by the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education (ZIMCHE) were operating illegally.
For decades, Zimbabwean students have travelled to the European Union (EU) member country in search of better educational opportunities.
However, last week, Zimche deregistered several universities from Cyprus, including Sharda University of India, Parul University, Girne American University, Near East University, University of Kyrenia, the European University of Lefke, and the University of Nicosia.
Before blacklisting these institutions, Zimche had accredited them, and many Zimbabwean students were enrolled in their programmes.
The local regulator cited concerns over the failure of these universities to provide internationally-recognised academic qualifications.
Honorary Consul of Cyprus in Zimbabwe, Nestoras Nestoros, stated that the deregistered universities were not recognised by Cyprus or many other countries.
“Girne American University, Near East University, University of Kyrenia and the European University of Lefke are amongst illegal universities operating illegally in the occupied part of Cyprus in violation of relevant UNSC Resolutions,” Nestoros said.
“Degrees and any other certificates issued by these organisations are not recognised in most countries.”
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“Unfortunately, Zimche had given 'accreditation' to these entities. This led to thousands of Zimbabweans 'learning' at these universities.
“We are glad that Zimche has now de-registered them, correcting an injustice to our country.”
However, Nestoros clarified that the University of Nicosia, whose licence in Zimbabwe had expired, remains a “beacon of legitimate education”.
He emphasised that the university is legally registered with the Republic of Cyprus and ranks among the top 600 universities globally.
“The University of Nicosia, though, is a legal University where lots of Zimbabwean students had studied,” Nestoros said.
“It is a legal university operating in the free areas of Cyprus and is registered with the Republic of Cyprus and is internationally recognised.
“Their de-registration by Zimche is a result of failing to renew their licence, which had since expired. The university is working on submitting their application to get registered in Zimbabwe again,” he added.
In addition to Cyprus-based institutions, Zimche has also flagged multiple universities from India for lacking credibility. Among them are Sharda University of India and Parul University.
Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Bramha Kumar, declined to comment on the matter, stating: “It is up to the Zimbabwean government to make the decision”.
