Rise in Examination Malpractices and the Development of Tertiary Education in Nigeria

The study focused on the Rise in Examination malpractice and the development of tertiary Education in Nigeria, with specific reference on the plethora factors which led to the rise. The broad aim is to interrogate the scourge of examination in tertiary educational sector. However, one of the specific objectives includes identifying the factor contributing to examination malpractice in Nigeria’s tertiary education. This is central to the core of our investigation and research. No doubt, examination has many consequences in many sectors of the economy, and unemployment, poverty and inequality have been linked to examination malpractice. We adopted primary source of data collection to enable qualitative and robust analysis of data, discussion of findings and ensure significant suggestions. Two theories were adopted for intellectual interrogation. Strain theory {by Robert and Merton} and Social Learning theory {by Albert}. These theories emphasized the need to monitor teaching and learning processes. While strain theory on the one hand examined the consequences of examination malpractice on education, ignoring other sectors of the economy, social learning theory dealt with the implications of examination malpractices on all the sectors of the economy and suggests constructive measures of combating the scourge in our society. The study found that, rise in examination malpractice in tertiary education weaken the social fabrics, nation norms, identity and norms, thereby creating setbacks in the growth and development of tertiary education in Nigeria. Arising from the forgoing, the study recommends that, examination malpractice should not be treated with outer levity, but offenders should be severely punished to serve as deterrent to many that might make attempt. Examination prevention should be holistic, intentional and comprehensive