In keeping with Ashesi’s mission to educate a new generation of ethical leaders, the faculty and executives of Ashesi University approved in November 2007 a proposal to invite selected classes at Ashesi to adopt an Honour Code for examinations at the university. Students from the Classes of 2011 and 2008 voted by overwhelming majorities of 80% and 84% respectively to adopt the Honour Code. Beginning in January 2008, students from those classes will write examinations under the newly introduced Examination Honour Code. Other classes at Ashesi will be invited to vote on the code at a later date. The adoption of the Examination Honour Code marks a significant step in the history of Ashesi University.
A student is considered to have violated the Examination Honour Code when he/she exchanges information that could result in an unfair advantage for one or more students before, during or after a test, quiz, or exam. The Honour Code is also considered violated when a member of the Ashesi community knowingly hides or fails to disclose any occurrences of unauthorized exchange of information during exams. At the end of each examination, students will sign a document indicating whether or not they have witnessed a violation of the honour code. Students who violate the code will face sanctions determined by the Ashesi Judicial Committee.
To orient students towards the honour code, the university organized a two day seminar entitled “Making the most of your Ashesi education” during which the entire community --students, faculty and staff-- met to deliberate on the honour code and its implications for the university. Students are excited and challenged at the prospect of maintaining high ethical standards and holding each other accountable during examinations.
Also effective immediately, all incoming first year students will be required to sign on to the Examination Honour Code prior to admission to the university, and will receive extensive orientation about the code.
The Examination Honour Code is intended to build a high-trust community, to put students in charge of their ethical posture and the reputation of their alma mater, and by so doing, to take a significant step in Ashesi’s mission to educate a new generation of ethical leaders in Africa.