In the media

A report by Dublin City University Anti-Corruption Research Centre found that up to 11 per cent of adults have been asked for sexual acts by public servants or know someone who has been. The study highlights that women and minority groups are more vulnerable, and that factors like discretionary power and lack of transparency in these sectors contribute to the problem.

Moldova will introduce a national anti-plagiarism system to check all bachelor’s and master’s theses starting this year, following an investigation into the buying and selling of academic papers. The Ministry of Education launched internal reviews, involved law enforcement, and called for parliamentary hearings with multiple state institutions to address academic fraud. Officials describe plagiarism as a serious issue undermining higher education and plan stricter laws, including possible annulment of fraudulent diplomas.

The government in Bangladesh will investigate widespread irregularities and corruption in the education sector from 2008 to 2025 and may publish a white paper based on the findings. Inspections have already revealed major issues, with action taken against 330 college-level lecturers, including dismissals and salary suspensions for using fake certificates.

The principal of Educrest International School in Gurugram, India, has been arrested for allegedly running a fraud by falsely claiming Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) affiliation. The school is accused of admitting students without proper recognition, collecting fees under false claims, and compromising the academic future of at least 25 students.

A Moroccan court sentenced a university professor and four others for bribery and illegally selling master’s degree placements at Ibn Zohr University. The case highlighted the need for major reforms, including more transparency in admissions, stronger oversight, digital systems, and stricter anti-corruption measures to restore confidence in the education system.

A new Transparency International report titled Leaving No Learner Behind reveals widespread corruption in education systems across Africa, based on research in five countries: DRC, Ghana, Madagascar, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe. The study finds that practices such as ghost teachers, payroll fraud, cheating, exam bribery, and sexual exploitation are undermining education quality and access, particularly for vulnerable learners.

The 2025 report by the Special Commissioner for Investigations (SCI) of the New York City School District highlights widespread cases of professional misconduct within the country’s largest school system. Last year, the SCI received nearly 12,000 complaints regarding fraud, abuse and financial misconduct, opening 471 investigations and closing 393. The report estimates that the Department of Education and the city’s pension schemes suffered losses of nearly $2 million.

A new study highlights the expansion of a commercial ecosystem offering “academic misconduct appeal assistance” through social media platforms. Researchers found that these services target students at moments of maximum anxiety. The model has evolved from informal help to a platform-driven business that operates similarly to contract cheating services. Academic integrity is slowly turning into a purchasable good. The authors warn that the phenomenon reflects a growing misalignment between institutional communication strategies and student behaviour.

A former acting head of the provincial education department was among 41 suspects arrested for alleged R114 million tender fraud over five years. Police arrested him at his home following investigations dating back to 2018. Several suspects across multiple provinces are expected to appear in court, including at least 10 Government officials and multiple contractors. The case involves suspected bribery, inflated tenders and irregularly awarded maintenance contracts. The education department reaffirmed a zero-tolerance stance on corruption.

Delhi Chief Minister launched the CM Jan Sunwai Portal and mobile app to improve public services and transparency. Citizens can now register and track complaints related to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, the Delhi Development Authority and the Delhi Police on a single platform. The Government also launched secure digital platforms, including e-District services and a new digital platform to support disadvantaged groups with fair access to free private education.