A major fake degree scandal has surfaced at Gomal University, prompting urgent action from the provincial government and university administration. Following the revelations, authorities have launched a wide-ranging investigation and suspended key officials allegedly linked to the case.
According to official documents, an initial inquiry identified 514 degrees as suspicious, with recommendations already made for their cancellation. Acting on a decision of the university syndicate, a former Director of Affiliation has been suspended, while strict disciplinary action has also been approved against a former Controller of Examinations allegedly connected to the scandal.
Sources claim that the alleged issuance of fake degrees and financial irregularities took place between 2019 and 2023. To uncover the full extent of the scandal, the government has established a high-powered investigation committee tasked with examining all related records and transactions.
University officials stated that, in addition to revoking questionable degrees, authorities are considering filing criminal cases against officers and employees found responsible. The move aims to prevent similar incidents in the future and restore confidence in the higher education system.
Provincial Education Minister Mina Afridi said that a high-level investigation into allegations of financial misconduct at Gomal University is underway and that the accountability process has been accelerated. She emphasized that no individual involved in the scandal would be spared, adding that the provincial government remains committed to eliminating corruption and fake-degree networks from educational institutions.
The minister further stated that protecting students’ futures is a top priority and vowed strict accountability for anyone found guilty of undermining the integrity of higher education.
