As the new academic year approaches, advertisements for educational programs are multiplying. The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research is strengthening its controls. A clandestine university was exposed in Tanjombato. "This establishment does not yet have the required opening authorization and does not even have compliant offices or premises. Yet it is already launching information campaigns and enrolling students," states a publication from the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research yesterday. This establishment, which also has branches in Toamasina and Ankorondrano, notably promises the delivery of a master's degree. This discovery was made during inspections conducted by the ministry as part of preparations for the National Accreditation Commission (CNH). This is not the first non-compliant establishment identified this year. "Several universities are making misleading advertisements," affirms Dr Bearisoa Rakotoniaina, director of Accreditation and Quality Assurance at the ministry. Beyond the irregularities already mentioned, some establishments offer training without having qualified teachers or the required accreditation, while others promise obtaining a bachelor's degree in just one year of study. "They commodify education and transform the educational path into a lucrative business," insists the official. Concern The Ministry of Higher Education has received over two hundred reports concerning universities in irregular situations since launching its dedicated platform. "The majority of these reports are substantiated," notes Dr Bearisoa Rakotoniaina. Two private universities have already been closed for these irregularities. "We asked them to regularize their situation. After this warning, these universities did not follow the recommendations, so their permanent closure was enacted," indicates another source within the ministry. The Tanjombato establishment and its branches could also face closure. This situation is causing concern among new high school graduates and their parents. As the 2026-2027 academic year approaches, announcements concerning educational offers are multiplying. "How can we be sure we won't fall into the trap of non-compliant establishments?" parents wonder. The Ministry of Higher Education invites the public to consult its official website to find the list of accredited establishments. This will be updated in October, following the National Accreditation Commission scheduled for the end of September.