Volume 8 | Issue - 8
Volume 8 | Issue - 8
Volume 8 | Issue - 8
Volume 8 | Issue - 7
Volume 8 | Issue - 7
Education is a crucial process that facilitates the acquisition of knowledge, skills, values, and ethical standards. Within this framework, academic integrity is a fundamental virtue, particularly in nursing education, where the stakes involve human lives. Despite its importance, academic dishonesty remains prevalent among nursing students, raising concerns about its implications for future professional behaviour. This study investigates the awareness of academic integrity among nursing students at Ebonyi State University, utilizing a descriptive cross-sectional research design. A total population of 302 nursing students participated, with data collected through a self-developed questionnaire assessing awareness, compliance, and strategies to prevent academic dishonesty. The findings reveal a high level of awareness regarding academic integrity, with students acknowledging the core values of honesty, respect, and fairness. However, some students did not recognize academic standards as integral to academic integrity. Statistical analysis indicated a significant association between course level and awareness of academic integrity, suggesting that higher educational exposure enhances understanding. The study underscores the need for nursing educators to instill ethical values and promote a culture of integrity, as academic dishonesty can jeopardize patient safety and the credibility of the nursing profession. Recommendations include implementing stringent policies to uphold academic integrity and fostering an environment conducive to ethical behavior. This research contributes to the understanding of academic integrity in nursing education in Nigeria and highlights the necessity for further investigation into effective strategies for combating academic dishonesty.