Islamabad residents looking to become nurses are advised to be cautious after the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) shut down a fake nursing institute in the city.
The institute, whose name hasn't been released publicly, was offering nursing programs and diplomas but wasn't registered with the Pakistan Nursing Council (PNC), the official body overseeing nursing education in the country. This means any qualifications issued by the institute would be worthless.
This isn't the first time the FIA has taken action against fake educational institutions in Islamabad. Earlier this year, they shut down a fake "Pakistan Nursing Council" that was issuing phony diplomas and degrees.
What this means for aspiring nurses:
- Double-check Credentials: Before enrolling in any nursing program, make sure the institute is registered with the Pakistan Nursing Council (PNC). You can verify this on the PNC's website or by contacting them directly.
- Beware of Too-Good-To-Be-True Deals: If a program seems suspiciously cheap or easy, it probably is. Legitimate nursing programs require dedication and investment.
- Do your research: Talk to current or past students, research the instructors, and check the institute's facilities to get a feel for its legitimacy.
Why this matters:
Fake nursing qualifications are a serious issue. They not only put patients at risk by unqualified individuals working as nurses, but they also waste people's time and money. By being vigilant and checking credentials, aspiring nurses can protect themselves from being scammed.
