The future of India's education system, beleaguered by rampant corruption at the hands of private coaching classes and MU-affiliated colleges, may be at stake. mid-day, in a 15-day investigation, has unearthed a rotten system where candidates clear exams, procure proxies and get Bachelors of Education (B. Ed.) degrees without attending college. This is being done with the help of private coaching centres, a few colleges and apparently Mumbai University staff. For lakhs of rupees, private coaching classes get candidates admitted to colleges they have tie-ups with. Candidates are assured they won't have to attend class as the attendance is 'managed' and are told to do whatever they want with the free time.

Such a B. Ed. degree costs Rs 1.75 lakh to Rs 2.50 lakh. If a candidate does not want to appear for exams, a proxy candidate is arranged for all four semesters for a total fee of Rs 4 lakh.