Academic corruption linked to the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the urgency of strengthening transparency and accountability in African universities. Such corruption includes research malpractice, questionable research management, mismanagement of research funds and procurement fraud. Several university officials bypassed public procurement procedures for the purchase of materials and equipment for coronavirus research. 33 papers were identified as unsuitable for public use and either retracted, withdrawn, or noted with concern.

The students of Information Technology, Arts and English departments boycotted the classes against non-provision of facilities and denounced abuse of powers. They alleged that the university administration was involved in embezzling funds allocated for the student facilities. They appealed to Sindh Governor, National Accountability Bureau chief Justice, and Sindh Chief Minister to take notice of the issue and help them for the provision of required facilities.

14 university officials have been investigated for corruption in Jiangxi Province over the past five years, including three university presidents. Due to a huge influx in college admissions, universities nationwide are undergoing massive expansions allowing many opportunities for graft during construction.