NCHE Revokes University of Lilongwe Degrees, Disgruntled Students Rush to Court

The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) has ordered the revocation of certain degrees awarded by the University of Lilongwe, affecting some 2025 graduates.

The regulator said the decision follows findings that some students were admitted through an entry pathway involving an ABMA Level 4 Diploma combined with prior schooling, which NCHE says does not meet approved accreditation standards.

NCHE has also directed the immediate suspension of unaccredited academic programmes at the institution, adding that affected students will be required to re-enrol and complete additional years of study before their qualifications can be reissued.

The move has triggered frustration among the affected graduates, with reports indicating that some students are now seeking legal redress against the decision.

However, the alleged court action has not been independently confirmed.

Students argue that they enrolled and completed their studies in good faith, believing the programmes were fully accredited, and say the decision has left them in academic and financial uncertainty.

NCHE maintains that the measures are necessary to protect the integrity of higher education standards in Malawi and ensure compliance with approved academic frameworks.

The situation remains fluid as affected graduates weigh their next steps while awaiting further clarification from both NCHE and the University of Lilongwe.