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Introduction 

Examination malpractice is a widespread problem in Nigeria, with several instances recorded yearly across different educational levels. It involves any act of dishonesty or unethical behaviour during an examination, which results in an unfair advantage for the perpetrator or disadvantages others. Such practices range from cheating to using unauthorized materials, impersonation, and bribery, among others. These malpractices have significantly impacted the quality of education in Nigeria, as they undermine the credibility of the examination process and lead to a decline in academic standards. In this topic, we aim to explore the different types of examination malpractices in Nigeria, the causes, effects, and possible solutions.

Meaning of Examination Malpractice

Examination

An examination is a structured process of evaluating someone’s knowledge and abilities through written, oral, or practical tests. The purpose of an examination is to assess an individual’s competency and issue a certificate upon successful completion.

Malpractice

Malpractice, on the other hand, refers to actions that are illegal, unethical, or careless and are considered unacceptable in a particular society. This can include activities such as fraud, misrepresentation, or neglect.

Examination malpractice

When it comes to examinations, examination malpractice refers to the act of cheating or using illegal means to pass the test and obtain a certificate. This includes activities like copying from others, bribery, or using prohibited materials during the examination. Examination malpractice undermines the integrity of the examination process and undermines the value of the certificate earned through such means.

Causes of Examination Malpractices.

1. Laziness: Laziness refers to the tendency to avoid exertion or effort, which can result in procrastination and reduced productivity.
2. The love of money: The love of money, also known as greed, is an excessive desire for wealth and material possessions that can drive individuals to prioritize their financial gain over other values and ethics.
3. Inadequate facilities in schools: Inadequate facilities in schools are a result of the lack of proper resources, equipment, and infrastructure necessary for effective teaching and learning. This can include insufficient classrooms, outdated technology, or a shortage of educational materials.
4. Incompetent teachers: Incompetent teachers are individuals who lack the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively instruct and support students. This can have a significant impact on students’ learning and academic achievement.
5. Parental influence: Parental influence refers to the impact that parents have on their children’s educational experiences and outcomes. This can include their involvement in their children’s education, expectations for their academic performance, and the values and beliefs they instil in their children.
6. Activities of corrupt school owners: Activities of corrupt school owners refer to actions taken by individuals who run educational institutions for their own personal gain and profit, regardless of the negative impact on students and the education system as a whole. This may include financial mismanagement, fraud, or the provision of substandard educational services.

Effect of Examination Malpractice

1. The Decline in Education Standards: One of the major contributors to the fall in education standards is corruption among those in positions of power within the education sector. This includes school owners, administrators, teachers, education commissioners, and others. Their selfish interests and pursuit of power often result in a failure to fulfil their duties, which negatively impacts the overall quality of education.
2. Incompetent Professionals: Within the teaching profession, there are individuals who acquire their certification through questionable means, but are not truly qualified to perform their duties as teachers. This is a similar phenomenon seen in other professions, such as medicine, accounting, and engineering, where individuals who lack the necessary skills and knowledge are still able to practice.
3. Rising Corruption: The increasing levels of corruption in Nigeria are a cause for concern, as it has far-reaching effects across all sectors of society, including education.
4. Loss of Confidence in Public Examinations: Due to the widespread lack of trust in the validity of certificates and qualifications obtained through the public examination system, many organizations prefer to use alternative methods of evaluating applicants, such as interviews, practical exams, or oral exams.
5. Discouragement of Diligence and Hard Work: When students become aware of the availability of shortcuts or illegal methods to obtain good grades and certificates, they may be less motivated to pursue their education through diligence and hard work. This further undermines the integrity of the education system and reduces the value of qualifications obtained through it.

Solutions to Examination Malpractices.

1. Stricter Consequences for Exam Cheating: To deter students from engaging in examination malpractice, it is important to enforce severe penalties for those caught engaging in such activities. This can serve as a deterrent and help to maintain the integrity of the examination process.
2. Appointment of Honest and Responsible Examination Bodies: To ensure the fair and accurate evaluation of students’ knowledge and abilities, it is crucial to appoint trustworthy and responsible individuals to oversee external examinations such as WAEC, NECO, JAMB, etc. This helps to maintain the credibility of the examination system and the qualifications obtained through it.
3. Sanction and Blacklisting of Schools Engaging in Exam Cheating: To address the issue of schools perpetrating examination malpractices, it is necessary to impose sanctions and blacklist these institutions. This sends a clear message that such behavior is unacceptable and helps to maintain the integrity of the education system.
4. Rewarding Diligent and Hardworking Students: To encourage students to pursue their education through diligence and hard work, it is important to reward those who exhibit such qualities. This can include scholarships, recognition, and other incentives that acknowledge and support their efforts.
5. Provision of Adequate School Facilities: To support effective teaching and learning, it is crucial to provide schools with adequate facilities, resources, and technology. This can include classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and technology equipment that help students to gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.