Bangkok: The acting president of Ramkhamhaeng University has initiated an investigation into allegations that Samart Jenchaijitwanich, a PhD student and member of the Palang Pracharath Party, sent a substitute to take his doctoral exam. This issue is set to be discussed at the university’s executive meeting scheduled for next Wednesday, November 6. If found guilty, Samart could face expulsion and the loss of his student status.
According to Thai News Agency, Samart was accused of having someone else attend and complete an English exam on March 6-7, 2021, during his doctoral studies at the Faculty of Political Science. The investigation into these allegations was previously halted under the tenure of former university president Suebpong Prab-yai.
Assistant Professor Wuttisak Lapcharoenthap, the current Acting President, confirmed that the allegations surfaced during his presidency. Upon receiving a complaint from the Language Institute, a fact-finding committee was established, which found evidence suggestin
g that a police officer with the rank of Pol. Lt. Col. took the exam on Samart’s behalf. Despite the change in university leadership, which led to the termination of the investigation, Wuttisak has ordered a review of the case and plans to present it at the forthcoming executive meeting for further action.
The investigation revealed that Samart faced no penalties following the cessation of the inquiry, except for losing the right to study the subject in question. He has since resumed his doctoral studies and is nearing completion. The university’s policy on exam fraud stipulates suspension for two semesters at the bachelor’s level, while substitution cases, such as that of Mr. Santi Promphat, result in expulsion and legal action against the substitute. Similar punishment awaits Samart if the allegations are confirmed.
Wuttisak stated that during his previous tenure, he informed the superior of the police officer involved about the misconduct, urging further action. The outcome of the upcoming executive meet
ing will determine Samart’s fate in this matter.
Source: Thai News Agency