Over 100 Nigerian nurses have appealed to the UK health secretary for help after being accused of cheating on tests required to practice in the UK, leading to devastating consequences for their careers. The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) identified alleged fraud at the Yunnik Technologies test center in Nigeria, claiming that the nurses completed tests unusually quickly. The nurses argue that they retook the tests in the UK with similar completion times and have called for forensic evidence to prove cheating.

They expressed that the collective punishment imposed by the NMC has resulted in job losses, damaged reputations, and mental distress, with many forced into lower-paid care roles. Some nurses claim they were unaware of the allegations until after relocating to the UK, having made significant personal sacrifices to do so.

Currently, nearly 2,000 cases involving Nigerian nurses are under review by the NMC, with many appealing their removal from the register, facing delays in resolution. Supporters argue that the nurses have demonstrated their competency and should not be treated as criminals. The NMC acknowledges the distress caused and emphasizes the importance of investigating each case to maintain the integrity of the nursing register.

UK Fitness to Practise News

Sam Foster, the executive nurse director of professional practice at the NMC, said:

“We know this is a distressing experience for the people involved, and we’re concerned by several accounts that some may have been pressurised into using a proxy tester at Yunnik.

“Some applicants have been open and honest about what happened and have been admitted to the register. We’re trying to support individuals, and we know there’s more we can do, including clearer information and further wellbeing support … At the same time, it’s important we fully investigate each case and reach decisions in the best interests of the profession and people receiving care. The integrity of the register is of paramount importance.”

A spokesperson for Pearson Vue said: “To prevent inadvertently giving helpful information to potential bad actors, we refrain from sharing details on how alleged cheating occurs in specific situations. Following the initial identification of unusual and concerning testing patterns at the test centre, we carried out a preliminary investigation, prompting action to suspend and ultimately de-authorise the test centre.”

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