The Federal University Dutsin-Ma in Katsina State has rusticated 20 students after they were found guilty of various forms of examination malpractice, in one of the institution’s toughest disciplinary decisions in recent years.

The sanctions followed a comprehensive investigation by the Students’ Disciplinary Committee, which invited each of the accused students to appear and defend themselves against allegations ranging from smuggling unauthorized materials into examination halls to collusion and impersonation. The committee’s report was later presented to the university Senate for consideration and final decision.

At a regular Senate meeting held at the university’s main campus, the Senate adopted the committee’s recommendations and approved the rustication of all 20 students. The punishment is to take effect from the second semester of the 2025/2026 academic session, effectively removing the affected students from academic activities for the duration specified in their individual letters of rustication.

Chairman of Senate and Vice Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Khalid Othman, anchored the decision on Section 13.3, subsection 13.3c of the university’s Policy on Examination Irregularity and Academic Misconduct. He stressed that the institution would not compromise on integrity, describing examination malpractice as a direct assault on the value of the degrees awarded by the university.

Professor Othman commended members of the Students’ Disciplinary Committee for what he described as their commitment to due process, fairness and firmness. According to him, the committee carefully reviewed evidence, listened to witnesses and ensured that all affected students were given a fair hearing before conclusions were reached.

The Vice Chancellor said the decision was intended not only to punish offenders but also to send a strong message to the wider student body that shortcuts and academic dishonesty would attract severe consequences. He urged students to “brace up to do the needful” by preparing adequately for examinations and adhering strictly to the rules governing conduct in test and examination halls.

University officials say the latest action is part of a broader drive to strengthen academic standards, protect the credibility of the institution’s certificates and align FUDMA with global best practices in higher education. The rusticated students are expected to comply fully with the terms of their suspension, while the university continues to monitor examination processes to prevent future violations.