The IBS Group’s attempt to have its university recognized by Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology was dismissed by the National Court last week Friday.
DHERST Minister, Pila Niningi, said IBS’ efforts in education is acknowledged but proper procedures must be followed to ensure quality of education in the country is not compromised. He said the department is ready to make preparations for IBS University to regain university status by applying.
IBUS now will have to make efforts to get registered as a university. Minister Ninigi said he has directed his secretary, Father Jan to write to IBS expressing its support to assist IBS. The letter was written yesterday to IBS.
Minister Ninigi, after the IBS situation said all the 50 plus Higher Education Institutions under the Department of Higher Education will be given three months to recheck their status, and reapply for registration if the need be, or face a penalty of K250,000 and be forced to shut down.
This, the Minister said is to keep higher learning institutions on par with world standards.
Father Jan stressed that parents and students have been forewarned about IBS University status but had gone ahead to register. He said, as the department responsible for higher education, they cannot assist the IBSU registered students to move to other higher learning institutions in the country as schools have already met their quota for the year.
However, he said, IBSU must take responsibility by applying for accreditation for the sake of its students.
IBS University’s Vice Chancellor, Edward Silva, when asked to comment on IBSU’s next step after the court decision, Mr Silva said, the university will seek legal advice before making a statement.
Nonetheless, he stated that people of Papua New Guinea should feel about the life and future of innocent Students at IBS University and also entire higher educational system in PNG.
