FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, DUTSIN-MA (FUDMA) RUSTICATES 20 STUDENTS OVER EXAM MALPRACTICE

The Senate of Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA) has approved the rustication of twenty students found guilty of committing various forms of examination misconduct, with immediate effect from the Second Semester of the 2025/2026 Academic Session.

This decision follows the presentation of the Students’ Disciplinary Committee Report during the 138th Regular Senate Meeting, held on Wednesday, 11th March 2026, at the Twin-Theatre of the Main Campus.

Approving the verdict, the Chairman of the Senate and Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mohammed Khalid Othman, stated,
“The decision is in accordance with Section 13.3, subsection 13.3c of the University’s Policy on Examination Irregularity & Academic Misconducts.”

Rationale for the Rustication

Prof. Othman commended the members of the Students’ Disciplinary Committee for their commitment to due process, ensuring that the investigation adhered strictly to principles of fairness, firmness, and justice. He emphasized that the Senate’s decision aims to:

1. Send a clear signal to all students about the importance of maintaining academic integrity.

2. Serve as a deterrent to students who might be tempted to bypass the rules governing examinations.

3. Reinforce FUDMA’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of academic conduct across all faculties and departments.

All affected students were afforded the opportunity to appear before the Committee to present their defense before the final decision was made, in line with the principles of natural justice.

Implications for Students

The rusticated students are prohibited from participating in any academic activities within the university, including lectures, tutorials, examinations, and access to campus facilities, until the period of rustication is completed as determined by the Senate.

The University reiterates that examination misconduct, including but not limited to cheating, collusion, impersonation, and submission of forged documents, will continue to attract strict disciplinary actions, up to and including rustication or expulsion, to maintain the integrity of the academic programs.

Message to the Student Body

Prof. Othman urged all students to embrace honesty and diligence in their academic pursuits, noting that adherence to FUDMA’s rules and regulations governing examination conduct is non-negotiable. He further stressed that the University management remains committed to creating a conducive learning environment while safeguarding the credibility of its academic awards.

The complete list of the affected students, including matriculation numbers and departments, has been documented and communicated to relevant faculties. The University assures stakeholders that all decisions were taken transparently and in strict compliance with institutional policies.

FUDMA calls on all students to refrain from any acts that may undermine their academic journey and to uphold the core values of integrity, honesty, and responsibility throughout their stay at the University.

Source: Office of the Registrar, FUDMA