Durban and KZN parents urged to verify schools as MEC Hlomuka flags illegal institutions

The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka, has issued a stern warning to parents, learners and members of the public to remain vigilant against bogus and fly-by-night education institutions operating illegally across the province.

According to the Department of Education, these unregistered institutions often lure unsuspecting learners with false promises of guaranteed results, quick qualifications and unauthorised certificates.

The MEC cautioned that such institutions are not accredited by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education and that their programmes are not legally recognised, leaving learners vulnerable and their qualifications worthless.

Hlomuka urged parents and learners to take proactive steps before enrolling at any education or training institution. He emphasised the importance of verifying an institution’s registration and accreditation status through the Department’s District Offices, particularly the examination sections, or by contacting relevant departmental officials for guidance.

“The Department will not hesitate to act against individuals or institutions that prey on our communities by offering illegal and unrecognised education services. We encourage the public to report any suspicious institutions to the nearest education office,” said Hlomuka.

The Department reiterated that illegal operators undermine the education system and exploit families seeking better learning opportunities.

Learners enrolled at such institutions risk losing time, money and future prospects due to unrecognised qualifications.

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education reaffirmed its commitment to protecting learners and ensuring access to credible, quality and legally recognised education across the province, while continuing to clamp down on unlawful education providers.

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