Texas authorities have mandated the shutdown of an Islamic university in the Dallas area, citing that it has been offering degree programs without the necessary state approval.
A letter dated May 6 from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board directed TexAM University in Dallas to “immediately stop advertising, offering, and enrolling students in its degree programs until it has sought and received a certificate of accreditation.”
The correspondence claims that TexAM operates a “university” that provides STEM degree options, both online and at its Richardson campus.
The investigation conducted by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board concluded that TexAM was not adhering to Texas laws and regulations.
“The website advertising and materials from TexAM indicate that your institution provides STEM degree programs in Texas, such as master’s degrees in artificial intelligence and bachelor’s programs in computer science, IT, cybersecurity, and health informatics,” the letter noted.
On Monday, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced legal action against TexAM University in Dallas alleging that it is “illegally presenting itself as a university, offering unapproved degrees, and deceiving prospective students regarding its authenticity.”
Paxton pointed out in a press release that TexAM University utilized a branding strategy that is “confusingly similar” to that of Texas A&M University.
“TexAM has consistently disregarded Texas law and misrepresented its ability to confer degrees, putting students at risk of being misled about its legitimacy,” Paxton stated. “My office will not permit illegal and unaccredited degree providers to function in Texas.”
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board informed TexAM University that it must return a signed letter by May 8, confirming cessation of its operations.
Shahid A. Bajwa, founder of the Texas American Muslim Institute of Technology, expressed surprise over the lawsuit for non-compliance, stating, “We have previously filed a lawsuit against two other members/directors for $1 million. We’re baffled by how compliance matters were overlooked. However, we’re open to discussing this and resolving any misunderstandings.”
In response to the allegations from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, Bajwa mentioned, “We have complied with their instructions and submitted everything via written correspondence and email as required by May 11. The deadline has been extended by THECB. We do not claim to operate as a ‘university,’ use that title, or provide degree programs upon request. Charges will only be levied on students.” He added that they have since removed their website and social media accounts.
As for the branding issue with Texas A&M University, Bajwa remarked, “Texas A&M has set a deadline for us to comply and remove our ‘TexAM’ branding, likely due to potential confusion. We are addressing this and will communicate updates accordingly.”
Fox News Digital attempted to reach the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and Paxton for comments, but didn’t receive an immediate reply.
