Ranchi CBSE Schools Launch Comprehensive Awareness Campaign Against Fake Universities
In a proactive move to protect students from academic fraud, Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) schools in Ranchi are implementing robust measures to raise awareness among students and parents about the dangers of admissions to fake and non-recognised universities. This initiative comes in direct response to an advisory issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC), which has prompted the board to issue clear instructions to all affiliated schools.
UGC Advisory Drives School-Level Action
According to educational experts, the CBSE has specifically instructed schools to sensitise Class X and XII students about the critical importance of verifying the recognition status of higher educational institutions before submitting any admission applications. This directive is particularly timely as the admission process for the academic session 2026–27 is set to commence shortly, making awareness campaigns essential for preventing misguided enrollment decisions.
CBSE officials in Ranchi have emphasised that the UGC regularly publishes and updates a comprehensive list of fake and non-recognised universities on its official website. Despite repeated advisories and warnings, numerous students continue to unknowingly enroll in self-styled institutions, which can severely compromise their academic credentials and future career prospects.
Official Guidance from Educational Authorities
Deputy city coordinator of CBSE, Rajesh Pillai, stated, "Students and parents must understand that admission to unrecognised institutions can invalidate degrees and adversely affect employment and higher education opportunities. Schools have a crucial role in guiding students at this critical stage." The board has explicitly instructed schools to clearly communicate to both students and parents that before applying to any college or university, its recognition status must be verified exclusively through the official UGC website.
The CBSE has further clarified that students should seek admission only to UGC-recognised higher education institutions, as degrees from non-recognised universities hold no academic or professional validity. All affiliated schools have been asked to strictly implement these instructions and ensure that no student falls victim to the deceptive practices of fake or unauthorised institutions.
Multi-Platform Awareness Dissemination
As part of this comprehensive awareness drive, schools will widely disseminate the advisory through multiple communication platforms. These include school notice boards, official websites, printed circulars, and parent-teacher meetings (PTMs). The primary objective is to ensure that both students and guardians are fully informed while making crucial decisions related to higher education admissions, thereby preventing irreversible academic setbacks.
Positive Reception from Education Stakeholders
Educationists across Ranchi have welcomed this initiative, noting that misinformation and aggressive marketing tactics employed by fake universities frequently mislead vulnerable students. Principal of DAV Alok, Ashok Kumar, remarked, "Many students fall prey to attractive advertisements without checking authenticity. This directive will help schools counsel students properly and safeguard their future."
Parent Shalini Devi expressed support, saying, "Students are often confused by flashy advertisements and promises made by self-styled universities. This awareness initiative will help parents and students verify facts in time and make informed decisions, safeguarding children from losing precious years and their academic future."
The concerted effort by CBSE schools in Ranchi represents a significant step toward creating a more secure educational environment, where students can pursue higher education with confidence and clarity about institutional legitimacy.
