The Maldives Qualifications Authority (MQA) has issued a formal warning to Avid College over the alleged offering of academic programmes affiliated with institutions in Sri Lanka without the necessary approval. The regulator said the programmes in question were being promoted and conducted without meeting the accreditation and recognition requirements mandated under Maldivian law.
In a statement, the MQA stressed that all higher education providers operating in the Maldives must obtain prior approval before launching or advertising foreign-affiliated courses. This includes securing recognition for partner institutions, curricula, and delivery arrangements to ensure that qualifications awarded to students are valid and internationally acceptable.
The authority warned that students enrolled in unapproved programmes risk obtaining qualifications that may not be recognised for employment, further studies, or professional licensing. MQA said it had instructed Avid to immediately cease offering or promoting the disputed programmes until full compliance is achieved.
MQA reiterated its commitment to safeguarding education standards and protecting students’ interests, urging prospective learners to verify the accreditation status of institutions and programmes before enrolling. The authority also cautioned that failure to comply with regulations could result in penalties, including suspension of programmes or further regulatory action.
MQA warns Avid over illegal Sri Lanka programs
