In a troubling development, 56 recruitment agencies are reportedly functioning illegally in the country, having failed to secure the necessary approval from the Higher Education Commission (HEC). Over the past year, these agencies have recruited more than 4,500 students. This situation has raised significant concerns about the safety and well-being of students who may find themselves at risk due to the actions of these unregulated agencies.
In response to this issue, the HEC has called for a stakeholder meeting designed to identify and rectify the legal loopholes that permit these agencies to operate outside established regulations. HEC Chairman Steve Chand emphasized that the commission’s foremost priority is the welfare of students, many of whom are brought abroad through unregistered agencies only to be abandoned without the necessary support.
Karishma Kumar, the Manager for Post Assessment and Field Inspections at the Fijian Revenue and Customs Service (FRCS), revealed that their investigations have uncovered instances where Fijians have invested substantial amounts of money into these unregistered agencies, only to be left without assistance once they reach foreign destinations. She acknowledged that while some institutions may intend well, their lack of registration with HEC ultimately jeopardizes the safety of students.
Chand reiterated that any institution not registered with the HEC lacks the legal authority to operate, warning that agencies failing to comply with the law might face de-registration and potential legal consequences. Additionally, Dr. Eci Naisele, the Director of the HEC, indicated that steps are being taken to bring the issue before Parliament, with plans to draft legislation aimed at enhancing regulatory measures to protect students from exploitation.
Further complicating matters, Nawa Natau, a Permit Officer from the Ministry of Immigration, stated that some of these agencies have unlawfully applied for visitor visas to sustain their operations in the country.
The commission is set to have a crucial meeting with the Solicitor General on February 4 to address these pressing concerns. This proactive approach underlines the commitment of the HEC to safeguard students’ interests and crack down on unlawful activities by recruitment agencies.
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