Manav Rachna International University, a North Indian University, introduces RFID Smart Degree Certificate

Manav Rachna International University, Faridabad introduced an RFID based Smart Degree Certificate for the 1st time in North India on its 1st convocation day recently at the campus. MRIU has adopted modern technology not only in enhancing the teaching learning experience but also providing academic credentials which are secured and authenticated.

RFID based smart degree certificate is tamper proof and ensures the integrity of the data written on the chip which is embedded in the certificate that looks like a conventional degree. There is a provision for biometric validity through finger prints of Left Hand Thumb and Right Hand Thumb and digital signature of the issuing authority as well as student concerned, which could be verified through a verification portal. The verification process includes visual verification, data verification and digital identity verification, all of which combined establish the authenticity of the academic credentials of the Graduate. Verification of the degree certificate may be done from a remote location. The RFID chip in the smart degree has read only features for the authorized persons and no data can be written on it once the University finally closes the option.

Speaking about the new initiative, Dr. O.P. Bhalla, Chancellor, MRIU, said, “Smart Certificate is an innovative certificate embedded with proof chip. The digital chip contains the information about the student details, the organization's details and the digitally encrypted signature of the certificate issuing authority. Adoption of smart degrees for the students will ensure that fake degree, if any, are detected by the employer / institution and all academic credentials of the students including continuous evaluation and term end evaluation are authentic and temper proof.”

The RFID label, which is placed on the university certificates, contains all the information required by the ministry for attestation and cuts down the large number of documents previously needed as well as the prolonged communication chain”, he further added.

The mechanism also provides for duplicate degree, as and when, the original degree is damaged or lost. If some errors creep in the data written on RFID chip and are duly verified, it is possible to issue a modified degree. In such case the previous degree will have to be returned to the University before new degree issues, but the previous degree will otherwise be cancelled in the database and degree verification / authentication shall depict the result that previous degree is no more valid. Hence, even if a student carries such degree, employer / institution would immediately know that it is not a valid degree.

“The Degree Certificate awarded by a University is an asset of prime importance in an individual's life. Circulation of fake degree certificates is a menace to the society, and a threat to the integrity of both the certificate holder and the educational institution that has awarded the certificate. Hence, there is an urgent need for universities to adopt a process that can ensure security of information and authenticity of the certificate issued”, said Victor Gambhir, Pro Vice Chancellor, Manav Rachna International University.

MRIU's dedicated focus on Quality Education & comprehensive development of students under the visionary leadership of Chancellor Dr. O.P. Bhalla and the students to keep the MRIU flag flying high, with the professional work quality & contribution of the students to the society.