FACTORS INFLUENCING EXAMINATION MALPRACTICE AMONG STUDENTS OF KASHIM IBRAHIM UNIVERSITY, MAIDUGURI

This study assessed the factors influencing examination malpractice among students in Kashim Ibrahim University, with specific objectives to examine the major causes of examination malpractice, assess its impact on students’ academic performance, and explore its effects on the quality of education. The study aimed to uncover both individual and institutional factors sustaining the problem and to evaluate how these unethical practices undermine learning outcomes and erode educational integrity. Adopting a quantitative research design, the study collected data through structured questionnaires administered to 100 respondents, comprising 50 staff and 50 students, selected using a cluster sampling technique to ensure equal representation across the university’s five faculties. Both primary and secondary data sources were used, while analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), employing frequencies and percentages to present results. Findings revealed that examination malpractice is primarily driven by fear of failure, poor preparation, peer pressure, and systemic weaknesses such as inadequate facilities, weak invigilation, and ineffective enforcement of examination rules. It was also found that technological devices such as smartphones and concealed earpieces have increased the sophistication of cheating. The consequences of these practices include declining academic performance, low knowledge retention, and diminished motivation to study, while the overall quality of education suffers due to compromised standards, devalued certificates, and reduced institutional credibility. The study concludes that examination malpractice in Kashim Ibrahim University is a multifaceted challenge stemming from both student behaviour and institutional deficiencies. Therefore, it recommends strengthened examination supervision, moral reorientation, academic support initiatives, and the establishment of robust ethical committees to safeguard integrity, uphold standards, and promote sustainable educational development.