Fake Degrees on Display? Institute of Design and Technology (IDT) stall at Education Expo Raises Concerns

SURAT, GUJARAT : Visitors at the inaugural day of the ‘Smart Education Expo’ organized by the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) on Friday were left bewildered by the presence of the Institute of Design and Technology (IDT). This comes amidst recent action taken by Veer Narmad South Gujarat University (VNSGU) against IDT, accusing them of offering fake degree courses in interior design and fashion design.

The SGCCI management, it seems, was unaware of the university’s action against IDT and 41 other similar institutes accused of duping students with unaccredited degrees.  IDT’s stall number 34 caused quite a stir, particularly among young students seeking opportunities at reputed colleges and universities. However, many visitors, aware of the VNSGU’s action, bypassed the stall altogether.

“I don’t understand why SGCCI allowed institutes like IDT to participate,” said Khyati Srikant, a student at the expo. “Their degrees hold no value. It’s crucial to remove such stalls to prevent students from falling prey to their false advertising.”

The VNSGU, meanwhile, has formed a five-member committee to investigate these “fake degree institutes” in Surat. The committee will visit all 42 institutes, verifying their affiliations and necessary approvals from the university or the state government.

“These institutes offering fake degrees could be part of a larger scam, exploiting innocent students for large sums of money,” stated a senior VNSGU officer. “Parents are often unaware of the legitimacy of such institutes and end up falling victim.”

When questioned about IDT’s presence at the expo, SGCCI president Ramesh Vaghasia explained, “The expo was planned well before VNSGU’s action. IDT might have booked their space earlier. We are now verifying the details of all participating institutes, including IDT, after being alerted by the media.”

“This incident highlights the importance of thorough verification for students seeking educational opportunities. It also raises questions about the responsibility of event organizers to ensure the legitimacy of participating institutions” said an education expert.