Honour Code

Preamble

As future physicians, MBBS students are entrusted with learning not only the science and art of medicine but also the values that define the profession. Integrity, honesty, and professionalism are central to medical education and practice. This Honor Code establishes the standards of ethical conduct expected from all MBBS students, whether in classrooms, clinical/community settings, or digital learning environments. By committing to this Code, students affirm their responsibility to act with honesty, respect, and accountability, thereby strengthening the trust placed in the medical profession by patients, peers, and society.

Core Values

The Honor Code is grounded in the following principles:

1. Integrity – Acting truthfully in all academic and professional endeavors.

2. Accountability – Taking responsibility for one’s actions and learning.

3. Respect – Treating patients, peers, faculty, staff, and the community with dignity.

4. Professionalism – Upholding the standards of conduct expected of a medical professional.

5. Fairness – Ensuring equality of opportunity and justice in academic and clinical settings.

6. Service – Recognizing medicine as a calling that prioritizes the welfare of patients and society.

Student Responsibilities

Each MBBS student is expected to:

• Commit to honesty in examinations, assignments, clinical work, and research.

• Maintain confidentiality of patient information and respect patient autonomy.

• Demonstrate civility in interactions, both in person and online.

• Take responsibility for learning, including preparation, attendance, and active participation.

• Respect institutional rules and comply with applicable policies, regulations, and ethical guidelines.

• Model professionalism in dress, demeanor, and communication, recognizing that students represent the medical profession from the first day of training.

• Uphold safety and responsibility in laboratories, clinical settings, and community environments.

Prohibited Conduct

The following actions constitute violations of the Honor Code:

1. Academic Dishonesty

   • Plagiarism (using others’ work, ideas, or data without acknowledgment).

   • Cheating in examinations, assignments, or clinical evaluations.

   • Falsification or fabrication of records, data, or patient encounters.

   • Unauthorized possession, distribution, or use of examination materials.

2. Misuse of Technology

   • Use of unauthorized digital or AI tools for assignments, assessments, or research.

   • Circumventing institutional systems to gain an unfair academic advantage.

3. Professional Misconduct

   • Breach of patient confidentiality.

   • Disrespectful or abusive behavior toward patients, peers, staff, or faculty.

   • Harassment, discrimination, or bullying in any form.

   • Substance misuse or behavior that compromises patient safety or professional responsibility.

4. Disruption of Learning

   • Misrepresentation of attendance or participation.

   • Obstruction of teaching, clinical, or research activities.

   • Destruction, misuse, or theft of institutional property.

Use of AI and Collaboration

• Permitted Use: AI tools, peer collaboration, or shared resources may only be used where explicitly authorized by faculty. Examples include structured group assignments, faculty-approved digital tools, or designated collaborative exercises.

• Prohibited Use: Use of AI-generated content (including text, images, or data analysis) in assignments, reports, or examinations without explicit permission constitutes academic dishonesty.

• Responsibility: Students must always clarify whether collaboration or AI use is allowed. When in doubt, they should assume it is not permitted.

• Transparency: Where AI tools or collaborative input are allowed, students must acknowledge and cite such use as directed by faculty.

Reporting Mechanisms

• Duty to Report: Students share a collective responsibility to maintain academic integrity. Observed violations should be reported through designated confidential channels.

• Protection from Retaliation: Students who report misconduct in good faith are protected from retaliation.

• Fair Process: Allegations of Honor Code violations will be reviewed through transparent and just procedures, ensuring fairness to all parties involved.

• Restorative Approach: Whenever possible, the response to violations will emphasize learning, accountability, and professional growth, while maintaining appropriate consequences.

Commitment Statement

By proceeding, each student affirms the following pledge:

“As a student of medicine, I pledge to uphold the highest standards of honesty, integrity, and professionalism. I will not lie, cheat, plagiarize, falsify, or use unauthorized tools in my academic and clinical work. I will respect the dignity of patients, peers, and faculty, and will conduct myself with civility both online and offline. I will comply with the Honor Code and will encourage my peers to do the same, recognizing that integrity is the foundation of medical education and practice. I accept my responsibility to foster a culture of trust, respect, and professionalism, both within this institution and throughout my medical career.”

Conclusion

The Honor Code is not merely a set of rules but a shared commitment to shaping the kind of physicians society deserves—honest, competent, and compassionate. The Code is indicative and specifies only some actions/behaviours. Students are encouraged to adhere to the spirit of the Code and maintain Academic Integrity, as well as Professionalism at all times.