Akfa University addresses Competition Committee’s statement
The Committee for Development of Competition and Protection of Consumer Rights has taken action against Central Asian University (formerly Akfa University) following complaints from seven former students. The university has responded to the situation and provided insight into the matter.
According to the committee’s findings, in January 2022, the university advertised the admission of students for the 2022/2023 academic year, specifically in the field of Commercial Law. However, it was determined that this program was not authorized under the university’s license for non-state educational services.
Despite this discrepancy, students were admitted to the program and paid tuition fees ranging from 12.5 million to 25 million UZS, totaling 167.5 million UZS for the seven affected students. In August 2023, students were given the option to continue their studies in a hybrid form or switch to the International Business Education program due to the lack of a license for Commercial Law.
While some students agreed to switch programs, most rejected the offer. The university has not refunded the tuition fees paid by the students, leading to the committee’s intervention. Central Asian University was instructed to recalibrate the fees for the affected students and address the issue promptly.
In response, the university issued a statement on September 5, acknowledging the oversight regarding the admission of students to the Commercial Law program without proper licensing. The university immediately informed the students of the situation and offered alternative study options. Refunds were provided to students who chose to discontinue their studies, while those who continued in a different faculty were not reimbursed.
The university highlighted that more than 20 students have already received refunds, emphasizing its commitment to transparency and compliance with regulations. Central Asian University expressed willingness to rectify any violations and urged students to communicate any concerns or discrepancies.
Central Asian University has agreed to comply with the decision of the Competition Committee and refund the tuition fees to former students. The university reassured its commitment to operating within legal boundaries and taking responsibility for any missteps in its operations. Students are encouraged to reach out to the university with any further issues or inquiries related to the case.
