Senegal: Private institutions ordered to stop issuing certain doctorates

The Directorate General of Higher Education (DGES) of Senegal is taking a firm stance against private institutions that are awarding certain doctoral degrees without authorization. This includes PhDs, engineering doctorates, and DBAs. In a press release, the DGES reiterates that awarding these degrees outside the regulatory framework constitutes a violation of the laws governing the establishment, operation, and accreditation of private higher education institutions.

The Directorate has formally ordered the institutions concerned to immediately cease this practice and comply with current regulations. It warns that any breach may result in the immediate closure of the institution and legal proceedings, without excluding possible criminal penalties. This warning does not, however, apply to state-recognized medical, pharmacy, and dental degrees awarded by private higher education institutions.

According to the DGES (Directorate General of Higher Education), diplomas awarded outside of regulatory procedures are not recognized either in Senegal or internationally. It clarifies that partnership or cooperation agreements with foreign institutions do not allow for any deviation from national regulations.

Faced with this situation, the Management calls on students and employers to be vigilant before any registration in doctoral training or any recruitment based on a doctoral degree issued by a private institution.
It recommends checking the status of the institution and the program beforehand with the DGES and the National Authority for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (ANAQ-SUP).

Djamila Kambou