A new federal law aimed at combating cheating in examinations has been enacted, bringing with it hefty fines of up to Dh200,000 for offenders. The legislation, passed alongside 73 other federal laws last year, imposes penalties on individuals who engage in several prohibited activities related to exams.
According to the law, anyone other than a student who engages in activities such as leaking exam content, altering answers or grades, or impersonating a student during exams will face severe consequences. These actions encompass activities before, during, or after exams, and those found guilty could be subject to fines or community service for up to six months.
In addition to fines and community service, disciplinary procedures will be initiated for students caught cheating, in accordance with the regulations set by the Ministry of Education and educational authorities in each Emirate.
The law defines cheating broadly, encompassing various acts such as obtaining or attempting to obtain exam-related information through illegal means, including electronic penetration of exam systems or falsifying results. It applies to both governmental and private educational institutions, including schools, universities, and colleges.
Educators stress the importance of upholding academic integrity within educational institutions. Abhilasha Singh, Principal of Shining Star International, highlighted the need for integrity to be embedded in the institute’s value system, emphasizing the role of teachers in imparting these values to students.
Rashmi Nandkeolyar, Principal and Director of DPS Dubai, outlined measures taken by their school to maintain exam integrity, including strict invigilation procedures and collaboration with sister schools to generate question papers.