Two tertiary institutions are now under investigation by the Fiji National Provident Fund for allegedly enrolling bogus students and obtaining money from the Fund as tuition fees.

The FNPF has now reviewed the criteria for private tertiary institutes that qualify for funding under its education withdrawal assistance after a range of complaints were received from members against these institutions.

CEO Aisake Taito confirmed that the matter came to their attention in 2008.

It is alleged that these institutions enrolled bogus students, and fees have been paid out from the FNPF and then the funds shared by the member and those running the institution.

There have also been cases where institutions have closed down without students’ welfare being taken into account, and the member loses out on fees paid to these schools as these are not refunded to their accounts.

Taito said if the need arises, the matter will be referred to the proper authorities.

Members have also complained about courses not being offered because of lack of students enrolled for that particular course.

For these reasons, effective immediately, FNPF will only accept requests from the following institutions, Fiji National University which includes FIT, FSM, FSN, LTC, FCAE and FCA, the University of the South Pacific, University of Fiji and TPAF.