Shariah-Compliant Ethics And Their Impact On Academic Integrity In Higher Education

Abstract

This paper examines the role of Sharīʿah-compliant ethics in promoting academic integrity within higher education, particularly in Islamic universities. With increasing concerns over academic misconduct, including plagiarism, cheating, and data falsification, the study aims to address the gap in academic integrity by integrating Islamic ethical principles such as trustworthiness (amānah), accountability (ḥisbah), and justice (ʿadl). The methodology employed includes a literature review of recent case studies from Islamic universities in Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and Nigeria, as well as a comparative analysis of academic integrity frameworks in Western and Islamic contexts. The study highlights key challenges in the implementation of Sharīʿah-compliant ethics, such as a lack of awareness among students and faculty, weak enforcement of integrity policies, and the influence of Western academic models, which often neglect Islamic ethical frameworks. Based on these findings, the paper recommends several strategies to strengthen academic integrity, including the integration of Sharīʿah-based integrity courses into curricula, the establishment of ḥisbah accountability committees, and the adaptation of institutional policies to incorporate Islamic ethical values. The study concludes that adopting Sharīʿah-compliant ethics in higher education can foster a culture of trust and responsibility, promoting ethical scholarship and academic excellence. Future research is encouraged to investigate the long-term impact of these ethical frameworks on academic success and the role of Islamic scholars in shaping university policies.