Exams and the ‘Wushishi’ Option

Having built a system that encourages 'success' at any cost, it comes as no surprise that many Nigerian students, from primary through post-secondary education, believe that cheating pays. A recent revelation by the Education Minister, Dr Tunji Alausa, has shed light on the 'mind boggling' leakages of National Examinations Council (NECO) questions in recent years.

Alausa's colleague, the Minister of State, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, allegedly sent him leaked questions ahead of the examination period. This issue is deeply concerning, as it undermines fairness and equal opportunity, and poses a significant threat to the quality of human capital in Nigeria.

Professor Ibrahim Dantani Wushishi, who served as the Registrar/Chief Executive of NECO from July 2021, has been targeted by those involved in examination malpractice. This notorious term, 'Wushishi', has become slang for their illicit activities. Alausa has described the challenge as systemic and endemic, emphasizing the need for collaboration among all stakeholders.

He acknowledges that while "any child can be bad," the real problem lies in the ecosystem where parents, schools, teachers, invigilators, and principals are involved in complicity.

The Education Minister and his colleague have taken a strong stance against this menace. Their cooperation and dedication to serving the public good are commendable. However, the challenge they face is not new, and it will require the support of all stakeholders to overcome. Examination malpractice not only undermines fairness but also raises questions about the integrity of qualifications and the quality of human capital in the country.

The scandal involving admission racketeering and IJMB results verification, which occurred five years ago, only recently came to light. This scandal involved a private university in Ibadan and IJMB results verification, revealing massive forgery and widespread cheating rings.