The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Frigate Deck, has raised concerns over the growing problem of examination malpractice in Nigeria, describing it as a significant threat to the country’s educational system.
During a weekend lecture held at Community Secondary School, Ikot Ewa in Akpabuyo of Cross River State, NAS emphasised that this widespread malpractice, if left unchecked, could jeopardise the future of young Nigerians and undermine the credibility of the nation’s educational qualifications.
Speaking on behalf of NAS, Dr Emmanuel Ekanem, the guest lecturer, addressed students on the topic, “Causes and Effects of Examination Malpractice Amongst Secondary School Students.”
He noted that examination malpractice had been an ongoing issue for decades, dating back to as early as 1948 when the Senior Cambridge examination papers were first leaked.
Dr Ekanem explained that students are not the only ones engaging in such illicit practices, pointing out that teachers, parents, and school administrators often play a role in facilitating these activities. He identified various forms of malpractice, including external assistance, the use of unauthorised materials like “microchips” and inscriptions, as well as the existence of so-called “miracle centres” where cheating is organised.
“Examination malpractice is an irregular behaviour that contravenes examination rules,” Dr Ekanem said, urging students to refrain from the practice. “When you engage in it, it diminishes your capability and raises questions about your certificate’s integrity. Many students cannot defend the grades they obtain through cheating, and this casts doubt on the value of their qualifications.”
He linked the roots of examination malpractice to poor parenting, noting that some parents impose undue pressure on their children to pursue certain academic paths, often against their natural interests. “Some parents don’t allow their children to choose what they want to be, forcing them to study subjects they have no passion for,” Dr Ekanem remarked. He encouraged students to focus on their studies and warned that shortcuts would ultimately harm their future prospects.
In his remarks, the Principal of Community Secondary School, Ikot Ewa, Mr Inyang Bassey, praised NAS for organising the lecture and underscored the importance of allowing children to pursue fields they are passionate about. He highlighted the need for greater emphasis on technical education, explaining that many students are more inclined toward hands-on work rather than theoretical learning. “Technical education is key and could help reduce examination malpractice,” Bassey said.
Mr Ubio Oviong, President of NAS Frigate Deck, reiterated that examination malpractice was a menace that had deeply infiltrated the Nigerian educational system. He urged students to build their intellectual capacity to compete globally and emphasised the importance of earning qualifications that can stand up to scrutiny anywhere in the world.
Oviong stressed that curbing examination malpractice would not only restore confidence in Nigeria’s educational system but also ensure that Nigerian certificates are respected internationally.
The event ended with a call to action for students to uphold integrity, work hard, and avoid the pitfalls of academic dishonesty in order to secure a bright future.