On May 31, 2016 the Ashesi Judicial Committee (AJC) ruled in a case of alleged plagiarism in the Leadership 1 course.
The AJC concluded that the student, a member of the Class of 2019, was guilty of plagiarism.
As stated in Ashesi’s student handbook,
Academic dishonesty includes plagiarism, unauthorized exchange of information or use of material during an examination, unauthorized transfer of information or completed work among students, use of the same paper in more than one course, unauthorized collaboration on assignments, and other unethical behavior. Disciplinary action will be taken against perpetrators of academic dishonesty – Section 7.4.
After deliberation, the AJC arrived at the following sanctions. The student:
- Will receive a failing grade for the course.
The AJC encourages the Community to consider how sloppy work, a lack of understanding of plagiarism, ethics and integrity have grave repercussions and affects the wider community. The AJC would especially like to advise the Ashesi community of the following:
- Students should take a great deal of responsibility to ensure that work submitted is neither rushed nor sloppy, and is a true reflection of the student’s capacity.
- Students should start work as early as process to allow for thorough preparation and checking of material.
- Students should learn to cite and reference correctly in all academic work. Seek help from the Writing Centre for clarity.
- Students should not ‘try their luck’ with plagiarism. Plagiarism is subject to the full range of sanctions – failing a course to expulsion.
Academic honesty is very important at Ashesi and is central to our mission. We trust that the Ashesi Community will learn and grow through these experiences.
