I was writing my ND2 examinations when I got caught for malpractice. The painful part is that I didn’t even plan to use the paper I had on me. It was just a jotter I made while reading, which I absentmindedly squeezed into my pocket because I had to rush to the exam hall.
After finishing the exam, I foolishly brought it out to cross-check my answers. That alone was enough to get me caught, and it was tagged as malpractice. Now, my case has already reached the administrative panel, and I know this could mean an extra year for me.
I deeply regret what happened. I never imagined it would get this serious. I’ve learned my lesson the hard way, and I’m praying for mercy. God, please let me find favour before the panel. I don’t want all my efforts to go to waste over one mistake. I’ve worked too hard to get here, and I don’t want to drop out. Ngozi
Dear Ngozi,
You’ve already taken the first step by admitting your mistake and recognising how serious it is. That shows maturity, and it will matter when facing the panel. Go with humility, speak your truth, and don’t try to defend what happened with excuses.
Accepting responsibility will likely count in your favour. Whether or not the punishment is harsh, let this experience reshape the way you approach exams and school life. Carry it as a lesson, not as a label. One mistake does not define your future, and even if there’s a setback, it doesn’t mean the end of your academic journey.
Hold your head high, be prayerful, and prepare yourself mentally to keep moving forward.
He Wants To Reap Where He Didn’t Sow
I’m 23, a graduate, and I was raised by a single mother who sacrificed everything for me and my younger sister. My boyfriend of three years and I are planning to get married this year, but there’s a big issue: my father.
The truth is, he has been absent for the past 13 years. He has never cared about how we fed, grew, or survived. My mum carried the entire burden alone. Now, my boyfriend insists that my father must be present at the wedding; otherwise, his dad won’t approve.
His reason hurt me: he said if my father is not there, his dad would think I might one day give out our daughter’s hand in marriage without his consent if things went wrong. This has left me confused.
My mum made it clear she will never sit beside my father at my wedding; she would rather rent a stand-in father than let him show up.
I honestly don’t know what to do. Please, I need advice. Racheal.
Dear Racheal,
Your pain is valid, and no one can dismiss the hurt of being abandoned by a parent. It’s difficult to reconcile the fact that someone who played no role in your upbringing is now being demanded to play a central role in your happiest day.
What your fiancé’s family is asking of you is rooted in tradition, but your lived reality is different. This is where you need your fiancé’s support most; he should stand firmly with you and help his family understand why your father’s presence is unacceptable.
A wedding is not just about pleasing others; it is about celebrating a union built on truth, respect, and shared values. If you allow a man who abandoned you to take the role of a father just for appearances, it may plant resentment in your heart.
Stay true to your story, honour your mother who stood by you, and communicate with your partner about what really matters, and your peace of mind in the life you’re about to build.
