By Saidu Jalloh, D.S. Reporter
FREETOWN — Minister of Technical and Higher Education Hon. Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie has called for zero tolerance on examination malpractice and fraudulent academic credentials, warning that both are eroding the credibility of Sierra Leone’s education system.
Dr. Wurie delivered the warning on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, 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, held under the theme “How Do We Address the Threats to Quality Education in Sierra Leone?”, focused on challenges undermining standards and integrity in schools and universities.
Drawing on her experience as a university lecturer, Head of Department and Dean, Dr. Wurie said existing laws and sanctions against academic dishonesty must be enforced without exception.
She noted that while policies to punish malpractice are already in place, weak implementation has allowed the problem to persist. She urged institutions to take decisive action against anyone found compromising academic standards.
“Examination malpractice must not be normalised, especially in higher education,” Dr. Wurie said. She cautioned that students who advance through dishonest means risk becoming professionals and leaders who carry unethical practices into government, business and public service.
The Minister also raised alarm over the growing use of fake academic qualifications. She called for robust and mandatory verification systems to ensure that all credentials presented by job seekers and public officials are genuine.
Dr. Wurie stressed that protecting the integrity of education cannot be left to government alone. She said it will require collective action from institutions, teachers, students, parents and other stakeholders.
She urged the sector to strengthen accountability, embrace digital solutions for record-keeping and verification, and uphold academic standards.
“Sierra Leone cannot afford to compromise the quality and credibility of education as we prepare the next generation,” she said.
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