Mbabane – The Eswatini Higher Education Council (ESHEC) has suspended all unaccredited programmes offered by four institutions in the country, warning that learners risk wasting their time and money if they continue enrolling in them.
The affected institutions are APIST College, Bradford University College, Centre for International Technology (CIT College) and CITEC College. According to ESHEC, the suspension was enacted through a Council resolution in 2024 and remains in force.
The Council explained that none of the suspended programmes appear on its official list of credible qualifications, meaning they are not recognised in Eswatini or abroad. Despite this, some of the institutions are alleged to be continuing with the banned programmes, an act which ESHEC said constitutes a violation of the Higher Education Act of 2013.
“Such actions undermine the regulatory framework and jeopardise the academic and professional futures of enrolled students,” ESHEC said in its notice. The regulator warned that any institution found to be defying the law will face penalties under the Act.
The Council said it has intensified oversight through audits and monitoring to safeguard the rights and welfare of students while strengthening accountability across higher education institutions. ESHEC reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusive, equitable and transformative higher education that meets quality assurance standards.
Students and parents were urged to always verify the accreditation status of programmes and institutions before enrolling. Verification can be done through ESHEC’s official website or by contacting its offices directly. The Council made it clear that only programmes formally accredited by ESHEC are regarded as legitimate qualifications both nationally and internationally.
For further information, the public was advised to contact the Eswatini Higher Education Council through its office numbers (+268 2408 8494 or +268 2404 8118) or visit its website at www.eshec.org.sz.
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