Degrees in doubt, 1.24 L in limbo

metro india news  I hyderabad

A major controversy has emerged in Telangana over the validity of certificates issued through study centres run under Acharya Nagarjuna University (ANU). The issue has placed the future of around 1,24,524 students in uncertainty, creating widespread concern among students who have already used these qualifications for jobs, higher education and promotions.

According to available information, ANU had been operating hundreds of study centres in Telangana since 2014. Through these centres, students enrolled in nearly 25 courses and completed their education under distance learning mode. Many of these students have already secured government and private sector jobs, while others have used the certificates for further admissions and academic progression.

The controversy began after questions were raised about the legality of these study centres and whether they were functioning within the permitted jurisdiction. Based on regulatory interpretations and recent higher education guidelines, concerns have been raised about whether certificates issued outside the approved framework can be considered valid for official purposes.

The Telangana government has reportedly reviewed details submitted by ANU, which states that over 1.24 lakh students were admitted between 2014 and 2020 through these centres. However, the state’s higher education authorities have now raised doubts about recognition, leading to confusion among students who had assumed their qualifications were fully valid.

This situation has become more serious because many students have already entered employment using these certificates. Some have also used them for promotions or further studies. With the current uncertainty, they now face the risk of their qualifications being questioned.

The issue also highlights a long-standing administrative gap between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana regarding the functioning of universities that operate study centres across state borders. While Andhra Pradesh had permitted ANU study centres during that period, Telangana’s recent position has created a legal and academic conflict.

Students are now demanding clarity from both state governments and university authorities. They are seeking assurance that their academic years and qualifications will not be invalidated suddenly. Education experts also suggest that any decision should consider the impact on lakhs of students who have already built their careers based on these certificates.

At present, the matter remains under review, and the final decision from the government is awaited. The uncertainty continues to cause anxiety among students, as their future now depends on how the issue is resolved legally and administratively.