In Malawi, the pursuit of academic qualifications has become increasingly distorted, with a concerning obsession surrounding degrees, especially those obtained from diploma mills and unaccredited institutions.

While the desire for education and the recognition that comes with academic titles is universal, the trend towards acquiring sham degrees is not only damaging to the integrity of education but also poses a threat to the effectiveness and quality of governance and leadership.

This practice, notably prevalent among politicians and public figures, has fostered a culture where the importance of actual learning and contribution to the body of knowledge has been overshadowed by the superficial allure of academic titles.

It is undeniable that academic titles such as ‘Dr’ and ‘Prof’ carry weight and prestige in many societies.

These titles are not only a reflection of years of rigorous study and intellectual contribution but also a marker of one’s expertise in a given field.

However, there has been a disturbing trend where some individuals, particularly politicians, seek to acquire these titles from diploma mills or shady institutions that offer little more than a paper certificate in exchange for money.

These people do not engage in the rigorous research, intellectual debate or teaching that academic credentials typically require.

Instead, they purchase degrees that are completely devoid of the academic rigour expected from genuine institutions of higher learning.

The result is a proliferation of ‘Drs’ and ‘Professors’ who cannot substantiate their qualifications with any meaningful work.

They are not able to cite their research or offer any hypotheses that demonstrate critical thinking or a contribution to their field.

This obsession with titles is a clear indication that for some, the academic degree is more a symbol of status and power than a reflection of genuine intellectual achievement.

The allure of these titles is so potent that some people seem willing to bypass the hard work necessary to earn them, instead choosing the shortcut of purchasing degrees.

One of the most dangerous outcomes of this obsession with sham degrees is the impact it has on the quality of leadership in the country.

Many of these politicians and public figures, having obtained degrees from disreputable institutions, are given positions of influence where they are responsible for making important decisions that affect the lives of ordinary Malawians.

However, these people, having bypassed the rigorous process of obtaining legitimate qualifications, are often poorly equipped to handle the complexities of their roles.

Those who acquire degrees from diploma mills may find themselves in positions where they are unable to perform at a level expected of someone with a legitimate academic background.

Their lack of real intellectual capability and critical thinking skills can lead to poor decision-making, inefficiency and even corruption.

The act of buying a degree, rather than earning it, is inherently shameful.