The National Council of Higher Education (NCHE), says it is satisfied with the conviction and subsequent fine imposed on Mr. Tuweh Gusto Gadama, who was convicted of offering higher education without proper authority.
On Wednesday, January 17, 2024, Principal Resident Magistrate Rodrick Michongwe sitting in Lilongwe, ordered the 55-year-old Gadama to pay 1.7 Million Kwacha for operating higher education institutions illegally.
He was also directed to pay an additional 1.7 million Kwacha for conferring illegal qualifications to unwitting victims. Failure to comply will result in a four-year jail term, with two years for each count. Furthermore, the qualifications he granted are now deemed worthless.
Gadama operated Cypress International Institute University and Jerusalem University, neither of which was registered or accredited by NCHE, a Government body mandated to register private higher education institutions as well as accredit both public and private higher education institutions in Malawi.
In 2022 after investigating and witnessing a graduation ceremony at BICC in Lilongwe, where Gadama was awarding certificates to his candidates, NCHE officials reported the matter to the police.
Gadama was subsequently arrested and charged with offenses related to offering or pretending to offer a higher education programme without the authority of the Council, as outlined in Section 34(a) of the NCHE Act.
Additionally, he faced charges for conferring a qualification granted by a higher education institution or in collaboration with a higher education institution without the authority of the Council, as per Section 34(b) of the NCHE Act.
Principal Resident Magistrate Michongwe stated that Gadama's conduct undermined higher education in the country, deceiving individuals into believing they acquired legitimate qualifications when they have none.
NCHE Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ambumulire Phiri, said the ruling is a positive step towards ensuring integrity in the higher education sub-sector.
"We are satisfied with the ruling as it sets a precedent and will deter others from operating such illegal higher education institutions."
Dr. Phiri emphasised NCHE's proactive stance in ensuring the quality and legitimacy of higher education in the country.
"Enforcing regulations and prosecuting those who operate without proper authority is essential in maintaining the integrity of higher education, safeguarding students' interests, and ensuring they receive recognised and valued education and qualifications locally and internationally."
The NCHE CEO assured that the Council will continually monitor, evaluate, and improve higher education standards to contribute to the development of a skilled and relevant workforce, aligning with the national strategic agenda.