CCAC uncovers education subsidy fraud scheme

The Commission Against Corruption (CCAC) has uncovered a scheme involving an educational institution and dozens of residents accused of defrauding a government continuing education subsidy program of more than MOP200,000.

In an announcement Wednesday, the CCAC said its investigation found that two individuals running a local institution had allegedly “colluded” with more than 40 residents between July 2024 and July 2025 to exploit the Continuing Education Development Program.

According to the corruption watchdog, the local institution in question offered courses subsidized under the 2023–2026 program and incentivized enrollment by offering participants cash rewards equivalent to half the tuition fee. Some individuals allegedly used family members’ identity documents without authorization to register and claim the payments.

Investigators found that more than half of those enrolled did not attend classes. Participants were reportedly told they only needed to appear when inspections were conducted by the Education and Youth Development Bureau (DSEDJ) to create the appearance of compliance.

Authorities said the suspects may have violated laws covering fraud, misuse of identity documents and computer forgery. The case has been referred to the Public Prosecutor’s Office.

In a separate statement, the DSEDJ said it was “highly concerned” and emphasized a zero-tolerance stance.

It added that stricter controls are being introduced, including a requirement for students to meet a minimum 70% attendance rate before receiving subsidies, alongside enhanced monitoring using artificial intelligence and data analysis.