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Academic Integrity Charter

Al-Turath University · Official Policy

Academic Integrity Charter

A formal document defining the commitment of the University, its students, and its faculty members to the values of honesty and integrity in all educational and research activities, and outlining forms of violation, investigation mechanisms, and penalties.

01The University's Commitment to Academic Integrity

Al-Turath University believes that academic integrity is a fundamental pillar of its educational and research mission. The University and all its affiliates — including students, faculty members, researchers, and administrators — are committed to the highest standards of honesty, trustworthiness, and respect in all academic activities, in accordance with the laws of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the Republic of Iraq and best international practices.

02Core Principles

Academic integrity at Al-Turath University is based on six principles:

  • HonestyHonesty

    In all research work, examinations, and reports.

  • TrustTrust

    Between the student, the professor, and the institution.

  • FairnessFairness

    In evaluation and providing opportunities.

  • RespectRespect

    For colleagues, opinions, and intellectual property.

  • ResponsibilityResponsibility

    Individual and collective to preserve the University's reputation.

  • CourageCourage

    In reporting violations and defending principles.

03Forms of Breach of Academic Integrity

3.1 PlagiarismPlagiarism

Attributing others' ideas, texts, or data to oneself without proper citation:

  • Direct copying without quotation and citation.
  • Paraphrasing without citing the source.
  • Submitting research prepared by a third party (Contract Cheating).
  • Self-Plagiarism: Submitting previously published research without disclosure.
  • Undeclared use of generative artificial intelligence In producing research texts or assignments.

3.2 Cheating in ExaminationsCheating

  • Using unauthorized materials or devices.
  • Looking at another colleague's work.
  • Communication during the exam.
  • Impersonation of another examinee.

3.3 Forgery and FabricationFalsification & Fabrication

  • Fabricating or distorting research data.
  • Forging signatures, certificates, or documents.
  • Submitting a curriculum vitae containing false information.

3.4 Illicit CollusionUnauthorized Collaboration

Collaborating on an individually authorized assignment, or sharing answers in an individual exam.

3.5 Misuse of ResourcesResource Misuse

  • Disrupting or damaging library or laboratory resources.
  • Unauthorized access to the University's databases.

04Policy on the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence

The University acknowledges that generative artificial intelligence tools have become part of the professional environment. Therefore, their use is subject to the following rules:

  1. Mandatory Disclosure: Any use of an AI tool in academic work must be explicitly disclosed, stating the tool, version, and nature of the contribution.
  2. Final Responsibility: The student or researcher is fully responsible for the accuracy and originality of the submitted content, even if an artificial intelligence tool generated it.
  3. What is Permitted: Language correction, initial idea generation, summarization, translation — provided disclosure is made.
  4. What is Not Permitted: Generating a complete research text or exam solution and attributing it to oneself without disclosure.
  5. Instructor's Discretion: Each instructor may set additional rules for their course; the student must adhere to them.

05Reporting and Investigation Mechanism

  1. Reporting: The report is submitted in writing to the deanship of the relevant college, or via email. [email protected].
  2. The Competent Committee: The deanship forms a committee of at least three members from the academic staff.
  3. Investigation: The student is given the opportunity to review the report and present their defense within seven working days.
  4. The Decision: The decision is issued within 30 days from the date of the report, with the right to appeal to the University Council.
  5. Confidentiality: The privacy of all parties is preserved throughout all stages of the investigation.

06Penalties

Penalties vary according to the severity of the violation:

  • Level 1
    First Minor ViolationWritten warning + re-submission of academic work.
  • Level 2
    Moderate ViolationFailure in the course + a warning recorded in the file.
  • Level 3
    Serious ViolationSuspension for one academic semester or more.
  • Level 4
    Repeated or Very Serious ViolationFinal Dismissal + Referral to the Judiciary if Applicable (forging a certificate, impersonation).

Penalties are subject to the Iraqi University Education System issued by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

07Student Rights

  • The right to review the report and evidence.
  • The right to submit a written defense.
  • The right to appeal within 15 days of being notified of the decision.
  • The right to attend a hearing upon request.

08Training Resources

The University provides:

  • Annual workshops for new students on scientific documentation and APA guidelines.
  • Plagiarism detection software (Turnitin) for faculty members.
  • A guide on scientific citation available in the Central Library.

09Contact

Central Committee for Academic Integrity[email protected]
General Administration[email protected]Extension: 6112