I REFER to reports on private schools in Singapore which offer fake degrees to students.

I wonder how many people realise that many private schools in Singapore link up with foreign universities and colleges which - although they are legitimate degree-granting institutions - are poorly regarded in their home countries.

Many students might feel that, come what may, a degree is a degree.

However, they get a rude awakening when they subsequently apply for employment and find that their newly earned qualifications are not recognised by potential employers.

The fake-degree issue is a serious matter, considering Singapore's reputation as an education hub.

It clearly shows the need for stricter rules to regulate private schools in Singapore.

Would-be students would do well to do thorough checks on their courses and schools.

Students considering tertiary studies in any country and their parents should apply only to accredited institutions to ensure that the degree earned later is recognised internationally.

Mr Sebastian Tan

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