By Gabriel Dike
Chairmen of Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Basic Education, yesterday pledged to work with the various examination bodies in the country to tackle the scourge of exam malpractice in schools with stiffer legislation.
The two committee chairmen gave the assurance at two-day International Summit on Examination Malpractice in Lagos organised by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to draw attention of government, schools, parents and stakeholders to the alarming increase in incidence of exam fraud during its examinations.
At Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), the Federal Government warned lecturers and teachers to shun sexual harassment and victimisation, alteration of scores for gratification, absenteeism at lectures and other negative practices. The chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education, Zakari Mohammed, said the existence law of four years jail term or N100, 000 fine for exam fraudsters have not deterred candidates or agents of exam malpractice. He, therefore, advocated for 10 years imprisonment without option of fine for offenders.
A member of the Senate committee on Basic Education, Obinna Ogba, assured that the Red Chamber will continue to support exam bodies with legislation and adequate funds to tackle the scourge.
The two federal lawmakers commended (WAEC) for the summit on exam malpractice and urged stakeholders to team up with exam bodies to tackle the scourge which they admitted is currently ravaging the education system.
Registrar of WAEC, Dr Uyi Uwadiae, told the gathering that exam malpractice is a time bomb and sought for collaboration with key stakeholders to address the menace.
Uyi said despite measures put in place to deter the candidates and their agents from committing fraud during the council examinations, the practice has assumed a different dimension.
Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, who spoke at YABATECH’s 31st convocation ceremony, tasked lecturers to give their best and shun the various negative practices which draw back the system.
Adamu commended the institution’s Rector, Dr. Margaret Ladipo, for the infrastructure development of the college and prudent management of resources and added that
“government will to emphasise transparency, accountability and good governance in higher institutions.”
Chairman, Governing Council of YABATECH, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, assured the minister that the institution will continue to discharge its duties with commitment and focus to maintain the integrity of the college.
He disclosed that the council has been partnering the college management to give guidance and direction towards promoting the standard of teaching and learning as well as improve the quality of staff and students.
In her address, Rector of school, Dr. Ladipo, commended President Muhammadu Buhari for his support and unfolded the achievements recorded in eight years under her leadership to include increase in academic programmes and rapid development.