By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
The University of Makeni (UniMak) has revoked the academic degrees of two former students after investigations confirmed they engaged in academic fraud by presenting falsified transcripts in a foreign scholarship application.
In a resolution passed on July 6, 2025, the University Senate unanimously agreed to withdraw the certificates of Ms. Fatmata R. Sesay of the Department of Human Resource (awarded March 19, 2022) and Abdul Karim S. Kanu of the Department of Law (awarded March 20, 2021).
The disciplinary action followed a formal complaint from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sierra Leone, which reported that both individuals had submitted fraudulent documents to secure a scholarship meant for Sierra Leonean students.
A Senate Investigation Committee was immediately established to probe the matter. The inquiry confirmed the documents were falsified and during the proceedings, both individuals admitted to the misconduct.
Speaking on the decision, Rev. Fr. Dr. George P. Ernest Gbamanja, Director of Academic Affairs, said the move, though painful, was essential to preserve the credibility of the University’s academic standards.
“The credibility of our awards is at the heart of UniMak’s mission. Any act that undermines this not only tarnishes our reputation but also threatens the future of students who work hard for their qualifications. The Senate had no option but to act firmly,” he stated.
Registrar, Foday Augustine Bangura, stressed that the revocation is final and binding. He confirmed that the decision has been communicated to the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education, the Tertiary Education Commission, the Chinese Embassy, accrediting bodies and relevant professional institutions.
This marks one of the rare instances in Sierra Leone’s higher education history where degrees have been formally withdrawn due to academic misconduct. Education analysts say the development underscores UniMak’s determination to uphold honesty, accountability and professionalism.
The University reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on academic fraud and reassured the public and international partners of its commitment to protecting the integrity of its qualifications.
