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Minister of Technical and Higher Education, Hon. Dr Haja Ramatulai Wurie, has called for a zero-tolerance approach to examination malpractice and the use of fake academic qualifications, warning that such practices pose a serious threat to the credibility of Sierra Leone’s education system.
Dr Wurie made the call on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, while serving as keynote speaker at a Special Edition Civic Town Hall hosted by the Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, at the newly transformed Miatta Civic Centre.
The town hall focused on the theme, “How Do We Address the Threats to Quality Education in Sierra Leone?”, with discussions centred on some of the major challenges undermining educational standards and integrity in the country.
Drawing from her experience as a university lecturer, Head of Department and Dean, Dr Wurie stressed the importance of ensuring that existing policies and sanctions against academic misconduct are properly enforced.
She noted that although measures are already in place to punish examination malpractice and other forms of academic dishonesty, weak implementation remains a major concern. She therefore urged educational institutions to take stronger action against individuals who undermine academic standards.
According to Dr Wurie, examination malpractice should not be allowed to become normalised in society, particularly within higher education. She warned that students who progress through academic institutions by dishonest means could eventually become professionals and leaders who transfer unethical practices into the workplace.
Beyond examination malpractice, the Minister expressed concern over the growing use of fraudulent academic credentials. She called for robust and mandatory verification systems to ensure that academic qualifications presented by individuals are genuine.
Dr Wurie warned that people who secure professional or leadership positions using fake qualifications could undermine public confidence in institutions and compromise the quality of services delivered to citizens.
To strengthen oversight and reduce opportunities for malpractice, she advocated for the increased use of digital technology in academic administration. She argued that digital systems could help improve monitoring, verification and accountability across educational institutions.
The Minister further emphasised that protecting the integrity of Sierra Leone’s education system requires collective action from government, educational institutions, teachers, students, parents and other stakeholders.
She urged all stakeholders to reinforce accountability, embrace digital solutions and uphold academic standards, stressing that the country cannot afford to compromise the quality and credibility of education as it prepares future generations.
