Solomon Islands National University (SINU) has suspended Salexon Tosi, Admission and Enrolment Officer at the Student Administration Services (SAS), following an internal investigation that uncovered his involvement in the forgery and unlawful issuance of academic certificates and transcripts.
In a statement, SINU said an investigation, conducted by the University’s Internal Audit Office, has revealed that Tosi had accepted payments from students with outstanding fees in exchange for unauthorised certificates and academic transcripts, which is in direct violation of the university’s policies and ethical standards.
The fraudulent actions came to light after reports were received from both internal and external sources, including the Ministry of Education and Human Resources (MEHRD), which identified discrepancies in the academic records.
The investigation confirmed that the certificates and transcripts issued to certain students had been falsified, with forged signatures and fabricated details.
In response to the findings, SINU Vice Chancellor, Dr Transform Aqorau, emphasised the seriousness of the issue and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to practicing good governance.
“It is deeply concerning when a member of our staff misuses their position to engage in corrupt practices that not only harm our institution but also undermine the trust placed in us by the wider community,” Aqorau said.
“SINU is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, and we will continue to take firm action against any abuse of office,” he added.
Aqorau added that the University takes its role in shaping the future leaders of the Solomon Islands very seriously, and any actions that compromise the credibility of its academic processes will not be tolerated.
He said the fraudulent issuance of academic certificates and transcripts poses significant risks to both the University and the community at large.
“These practices can lead to unqualified individuals entering the workforce, potentially diminishing the value of SINU’s qualifications and eroding the public’s trust in the institution.
“Additionally, such acts undermine the hard work of students who earn their credentials legitimately and may contribute to broader systemic corruption within the education sector.”
Aqorau said following Tosi’s suspension, a number of members of the public have come forward with further allegations involving other staff.
“SINU assures the public that all reports will be investigated thoroughly, and appropriate actions will be taken where necessary.
“We will not hesitate to hold those accountable who engage in unethical behaviour.
“SINU is committed to maintaining an environment of integrity, transparency, and accountability in all aspects of its operations.
“We urge all staff and students to adhere to the highest ethical standards and help us protect the reputation and mission of the University.”
SINU calls on anyone with information related to these matters to come forward and assist in ensuring that SINU remains a respected institution of learning, free from corruption and malpractice.
Aqorau was appointed SINU’s vice chancellor in August 2022.
Last August, he took his first major disciplinary action by terminating five top university staff over their involvement in a printing scandal that rocked the university at that time.
Investigations have revealed SINU lost $3.4 million paid to a ghost printing company called “Wakaman Inc.”, which does not own a single printing machine.