By Saidu Jalloh, D.S. Reporter
Sierra Leone Teachers Union President Ibrahim Bankapoma Kargbo says examination malpractice is being driven by a mix of social and systemic problems, not just by teachers and students.
Speaking at the Government’s Special Civic Town Hall session in Freetown hosted by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, Kargbo identified betting culture, misuse of technology, poor conditions of service, poverty and favouritism in employment as key factors undermining the integrity of the country’s examination system.
He said technology is now being used to facilitate cheating, while poor pay and working conditions for teachers and examination personnel create room for unethical conduct.
Kargbo also linked poverty to corruption, arguing that economic hardship makes some people vulnerable to malpractice.
He further criticized the national obsession with academic certificates over competence and skills.
“All they want to see is the paper. They do not ask whether you have the skills or the capacity to perform your role. It is just the paper. So everybody wants a certificate,” he said.
The SLTU President described examination malpractice as a “grand conspiracy,” insisting that responsibility extends beyond the classroom.
“Government, parents, public institutions and other stakeholders also have responsibilities in preventing examination malpractice,” he said.
He particularly called on government to improve conditions of service for teachers and examination staff, saying better welfare could promote professionalism and reduce temptation.
However, Kargbo was clear that poor conditions should not excuse corruption.
“I do not condone corruption. Those we have dealt with know that I do not entertain that,” he said.
His comments come amid growing public concern over exam fraud and demands for stronger measures to protect the credibility of Sierra Leone’s education system.
Kargbo maintained that tackling the problem will require a collective approach including better working conditions, stronger institutional accountability, and shared responsibility from all stakeholders.
_For more information contact Daily Scope Newspaper at dailyscopemedia@gmail.com
