NZQA investigation into alleged fraudulent activity

21 August 2009

The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) is investigating allegations of fraudulent activity by a private training establishment, made in the TV2 programme Illegal New Zealand, last night (Thursday, 20 August).

NZQA Chief Executive Karen Poutasi said the investigation was delayed because the programme’s producer, Screentime Ltd, refused to provide any details of the allegation, despite repeated requests for information since 27 July.

Screentime refused to provide information, stating it would "potentially damage our story". Contrary to statements in the programme, no evidence has been provided to NZQA on the allegations which relate to false reporting of student achievement.

After viewing the programme, NZQA has identified the private tertiary establishment and individuals featured, but not named, in the programme. The Police have been contacted.

"NZQA takes any allegations of inappropriate activity very seriously but cannot act without details of the education provider involved," Dr Poutasi said.

"There are currently more than 700 NZQA-registered private training establishments operating in New Zealand, all of which are audited by NZQA on a regular basis."

For legal reasons, NZQA cannot name the individuals or organisations involved. However, online records of the individual’s qualification have been suspended, pending investigation.

NZQA is responsible for registration of private tertiary establishments, approval of courses, and accreditation of registered providers to deliver approved courses. It is a condition of registration that a registered private training establishment complies at all times with the relevant policies and criteria established by NZQA.

Failure to do so may lead to the cancellation of that registration. A decision on appropriate action in this case will be taken following a formal investigation.

While NZQA can take steps to protect the identity of complainants, it cannot act on anonymous complaints. The NZQA call centre is contactable on: 04 463 3000.

For more information contact:

Angela Perez / Steve Rendle
Communications unit
Tel: 04 463 4240
Mob: 0274 5757 83

Page updated: 24 August 2009