NOUN South-East Marking Zone Emphasizes Rigor and Fairness in Examination Assessment

Enugu, Nigeria - Ahead of the 2025_1 conference marking exercise in the South-East zone, examiners gathered to receive critical guidance aimed at upholding the highest standards of academic integrity.

Examiners' Gathering Focuses on Quality and Accuracy

Prof. Banikole O. Ogunleye, Coordinator of the South-East Conference Marking Zone for the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), addressed examiners on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, stressing the profound responsibility they shoulder. He emphasized that exam scripts represent the culmination of students' efforts and, ultimately, their future prospects.

Ogunleye acknowledged the inherent challenges of marking, characterizing it as one of the most demanding aspects of the teaching profession. He urged examiners to exercise utmost care, thoroughness, and meticulous attention to detail throughout the evaluation process, highlighting the significant impact their work has on both the university and the wider community.

The Dean of Faculty of Education reinforced the importance of detailed assessment, explicitly stating that bulk scoring of marks is strictly prohibited. Instead, examiners are expected to award scores on a point-by-point basis, ensuring a comprehensive and fair evaluation of each student's understanding.

To guarantee fairness, transparency, and accuracy in the assessment of all scripts, Ogunleye instructed examiners to strictly adhere to the established marking guidelines. He also encouraged collaboration with subject officers and checkers, emphasizing the crucial role of subject officers in vetting marked scripts to ensure compliance with all marking rules and regulations.

Furthermore, the coordinator underscored the responsibility of checkers to verify the accurate return of all assigned scripts, ensuring a complete and accountable process.

Earlier, Ogunleye briefed subject officers from the university's nine faculties, charging them to select only qualified examiners for the marking exercise. He described the task as "enormous," requiring "promptness, determination, and sheer commitment." He appealed to the subject officers to prioritize ethical practices in their oversight roles.

While advocating for a respectful and supportive environment for markers, Ogunleye also stressed the need for firmness and thoroughness in the vetting of scripts, reiterating the prohibition of bulk scoring to maintain academic standards.

Prof. Charity Akuadi Okonkwo, Centre Director, extended a warm welcome to the examiners and assured them of the centre's full support, pledging to provide all necessary materials and assistance to facilitate a smooth and efficient marking process.

Technical support was provided by Andekin Ande, representing the Directorate of Management Information System. The Directorate of Exams and Assessment was represented by Adabayo Kayode and Mrs. Ndubuisi Juliana, who oversaw logistical arrangements for the exercise.