Crackdown on fake nursing qualifications

Emmanuel Kafe

THE Nurses Council of Zimbabwe (NCZ) is set to introduce new diplomas with enhanced security features to prevent individuals from using fake certificates to gain employment in the health sector, it has been learnt.

NCZ has reported at least three cases of fake practising certificates to the police this year. The number of forged papers is believed to be higher. The new diplomas will have hidden security features which will complement QR codes that are already being used on practising certificates. In an interview with The Sunday Mail, NCZ acting registrar Mrs Grace Madondo urged employers to verify the authenticity of job applicants’ diplomas and practising certificates before hiring them.

“We are currently developing a new diploma with a variety of security features to combat this widespread problem of fake diplomas and practising certificates,” she said.

“This is not the first attempt to curb the problem; the council already utilises QR codes on practising certificates, allowing employers to verify a nurse’s credentials electronically.

“We don’t want to tip off those who manufacture these bogus diplomas.”

Employers, Mrs Madondo added, must scan the QR code on job applicants’ practising certificates and contact the council for confirmation if necessary.

“If the practising certificate has no barcode or if there is no information displayed, the employer can confirm with us through attaching the diploma, registration certificate and practising certificate,” she said. Medical and Dental Private Practitioners of Zimbabwe Association president Dr Johannes Marisa said the development highlights a serious problem.

“Individuals with fake qualifications may lack the necessary skills and knowledge to provide competent care, potentially putting patients at risk,” he said.

“Some of these nurses are people who would have failed at nurse training institutions and they try by all means to get a job, but improved security on the diplomas will go a long way in curbing this trend.

“Efforts to combat fake credentials demonstrate a commitment to protecting both patients and the integrity of the healthcare system.”

The NCZ defines and enforces ethical practices and discipline among nurses/midwives in Zimbabwe, in compliance with the Health Professions Act.