Search Page

The existing fragmented and unaccountable structures of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) perpetuate dysfunction, corruption, and exploitation, betraying the trust of South Africa’s most vulnerable students and undermining the integrity of its higher education system. During the COVID-19 pandemic, funds intended for vulnerable populations were misappropriated.

The Tanzania Higher Learning Institutions Students’ Organisation (TAHLISO) has warned that fraudulent education agents are sending Tanzanian students to unaccredited universities abroad. TAHLISO’s secretary general called for stronger oversight from education authorities. Reports highlighted the case of a student who lost TZS8 million to such scams. Experts criticize the inadequate monitoring of these agents requesting for collaboration between government, educational institutions, and international bodies to protect students.

Cheating in school is an age-old problem, but new technologies have made it easier. Mobile phones in particular allow students to peek at notes during exams, text their friends for homework answers, or even use AI apps to solve a problem. Educators and institutions are deploying various measures to combat cheating. But is it enough to safeguard the integrity of exams?

A senior law student at Istanbul Bilgi University faced disciplinary action for allegedly using AI, ChatGPT to cheat on an exam. The student’s legal battle ended in suspension, causing financial and emotional distress. The case highlights the challenges of AI in maintaining academic integrity and the need for clearer policies.