Opinion Urges Stronger Verification for Ethiopia's Study-Abroad Sector

In an opinion piece published by Addis Standard, Sanjay Laul argues that Ethiopia urgently needs better verification systems for study-abroad opportunities rather than increased promotion. As international study offers are increasingly marketed to Ethiopian students through social media, WhatsApp groups, and independent agents, verification must become a standard first step. Laul points out that while Ethiopia already utilizes licensing and oversight systems to protect overseas workers and combat academic fraud, similar protective measures are critically needed to regulate study-abroad agents, scholarship offers, and foreign university partnerships. To protect themselves from potential scams, students are advised to verify institutions directly through official channels and demand complete transparency regarding fees and eligibility criteria. Furthermore, students should avoid agents who promise guaranteed admission or visas, with Laul emphasizing that legitimate scholarship programs never demand upfront payments from applicants. Establishing these safeguards is vital to preventing real financial and academic losses for prospective Ethiopian students.