Blockchain-Based Academic Credential Verification System

Objective:

To develop a tamper-proof, decentralized platform for issuing, verifying, and managing academic credentials (degrees, certificates, transcripts) using blockchain technology, ensuring authenticity and eliminating fraud.

Key Features:

Immutable Credential Records – Academic credentials are permanently recorded on the blockchain.

Instant Verification – Employers or institutions can instantly verify credentials without intermediaries.

Digital Certificates with QR Codes – Easily shareable and scannable credentials.

Student Ownership of Records – Learners have full control over who can access or verify their credentials.

Fraud Prevention – Tamper-proof issuance prevents fake or altered documents.

Interoperable Standards – Compatible with platforms like OpenCerts, EBSI, W3C Verifiable Credentials.

Decentralized Access – Institutions, employers, and students interact on a shared network.

Technologies Used:

Blockchain Platform: Ethereum / Polygon / Hyperledger Fabric

Smart Contracts: Solidity (Ethereum) / Chaincode (Hyperledger)

Credential Standards: W3C Verifiable Credentials / OpenBadges

Frontend: React.js / Angular (for user dashboards)

Backend: Node.js / Express.js

Decentralized Storage: IPFS / Arweave (for certificates and metadata)

QR Code & Hashing: SHA-256 to create digital signatures and QR codes

Wallets & Identity: MetaMask / Decentralized Identifiers (DIDs)

How It Works:

Credential Issuance:

Academic institutions issue credentials and store a hash of the certificate on the blockchain.

Student Receives Credential:

The student receives a digital version of the credential (PDF or badge) with a unique blockchain hash and QR code.

Verification Process:

Employers or third parties scan the QR code or enter the credential hash on the platform.

The system checks the blockchain to confirm authenticity and match the original issuer.

Access Control:

Students can manage visibility and permissions for sharing their academic records.

Benefits:

Authenticity: Credentials cannot be forged, altered, or duplicated.

Efficiency: Reduces time and cost of verification for employers and institutions.

Student Empowerment: Learners control their data and can share it globally.

Transparency: Issuance and verification logs are open and auditable.

Global Recognition: Supports international credential validation and mobility.

Environmental Impact: Reduces need for paper-based documentation.