The growing trend of high-profile figures obtaining questionable PhD degrees has sparked controversy, with several influential personalities now under scrutiny.
The latest to be caught up in the scandal is Dr. Rebecca Manfred, the Chief Financial Officer of Curverid Tobacco Company, whose academic credentials are being questioned by industry analysts as the tobacco selling season approaches.
Rising Concerns in the Industry
Dr. Manfred, widely recognised as one of the youngest female chartered accountants in the country, has come under the spotlight after allegations surfaced that some prominent figures are acquiring honorary or dubious PhD degrees to boost their public status.
Analysts within the tobacco sector have raised concerns about her qualifications, questioning the credibility of the institutions granting such degrees.
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Her case follows that of Proctor Nyemba, another socialite whose academic credentials have also been challenged. The trend has sparked widespread debate over the integrity of academic qualifications held by business and social influencers in Zimbabwe.
Manfred’s Masterclass and Industry Influence
Dr. Manfred, who runs a popular Masterclass session aimed at mentoring young professionals, has yet to respond to the allegations regarding her PhD.
Her rise in the corporate world has been notable, but the scrutiny over her academic achievements has cast doubt on the authenticity of some credentials used by key industry players.
No Official Response Yet
Attempts to get a comment from Dr. Manfred were unsuccessful at the time of writing, as she did not respond to inquiries. Meanwhile, industry insiders believe that the growing trend of high-profile individuals allegedly acquiring questionable degrees needs urgent regulatory intervention to protect the credibility of Zimbabwe’s academic and professional institutions.
This is a developing story, and more details will follow as investigations continue.
