Exam regulator Ofqual is bringing together industry leaders to
agree new measures to continue to fight fraud in qualifications.
Representatives at today's (18 November) summit in London include
regulators such as the Security Industry Authority, industry
licensing organisations including the Construction Skills
Certification Scheme, and government agencies and ministries. The
summit coincides with the launch of a new Counter Fraud Action
Plan which outlines measures, developed with partners, to
tackle training malpractice and fraud in key sectors such as
construction and security.
It includes commitments to make it easier to report suspicious
activity and concerns, and for awarding organisations to alert
other awarding organisations who may be affected when fraud is
reported.
Discussions at the summit will focus on how the different
organisations can build on existing work to better protect the
integrity of qualifications and services for the public.
Leaders will also discuss how they will work with enforcement
agencies to tackle qualification fraud.
Sir Ian Bauckham CBE, Chief Regulator at Ofqual, said:
“Qualification fraud is a serious issue that affects public trust
and safety, as well as being unfair on the vast majority of those
students who genuinely achieve the qualification.
“To address this complex problem, we need a comprehensive,
multi-agency solution. Our action plan reflects the strong
commitment made by key agencies to fight qualification fraud.
We'll work ever more closely to prevent, disrupt, and detect
fraud in qualifications wherever they occur.”
Paul Fullwood, Director of Inspections and Enforcement at the
Security Industry Authority, said: “We're committed to combatting
malpractice and a concerted effort from all parties involved
working together to share information and best practice is vital
to tackle this issue.
“This summit represents the collaboration we need to build on in
taking forward our shared vision to root out qualification
fraud.”
