The Higher Education Commission of Fiji is taking significant steps to enhance educational standards and protect students amid rising concerns over the unregulated practices in overseas student recruitment. This initiative was brought to light during an Inter-Agency Stakeholders Talanoa Session, which convened key representatives from several government ministries and organizations, including the Ministry of Immigration, Vodafone Fiji, the Consumer Council of Fiji, the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, the Ministry of Justice, and the Tertiary Education Loan Service.
Chairperson of the HECF, Steve Chand, articulated that the Commission serves as the independent regulatory authority for higher education in Fiji, tasked with overseeing all education providers and recruitment activities beyond Year 13 as mandated by the Higher Education Act of 2008, which is currently under review. He stressed the necessity for clearly defined roles among various stakeholders to minimize overlaps and to collectively enhance standards while safeguarding students and ensuring a reliable recruitment system.
Chand expressed serious concerns regarding the existing system that governs student recruitment agencies, which he described as poorly coordinated and inadequately regulated. He pointed out that certain agencies are functioning outside the legal framework, thus putting students and their families at risk. Some agencies have exploited regulatory loopholes by using business visas for recruitment activities in hotels and preying on parents eager to secure overseas educational opportunities for their children.
According to the HECF, such unregulated practices have led to financial losses for families and, in severe instances, have left students vulnerable to exploitation in foreign countries. Chand reiterated that only institutions and agencies registered and regulated under the Act will be allowed to operate, warning that those operating beyond its jurisdiction will face legal repercussions.
Chand highlighted the urgent need for a coherent and enforceable policy framework to restore order in the sector, protect students, and uphold the integrity of Fiji’s higher education system. He encouraged stakeholders to engage actively in the ongoing efforts to close regulatory gaps, boost awareness among parents and students, and promote ethical recruitment practices as the path forward.
This proactive approach reflects a commitment to not only safeguarding students but also enhancing the country’s reputation in the global education landscape. The ongoing collaboration among stakeholders is vital to ensuring that educational practices remain ethical and transparent in Fiji.
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