The growing culture of paid publications and favoritism in academia has become a major factor in the decline of academic integrity within higher education institutions. Many faculty members now prioritize career advancement and institutional recognition over genuine research and effective teaching. This trend has been further reinforced by the policies of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), which often emphasize quantitative indicators such as the number of publications and citation scores rather than the quality and originality of academic work. As a result, superficial research practices, academic dishonesty, and unethical collaborations are increasingly normalized. Consequently, the true purpose of higher education to foster critical thinking, innovation, and ethical scholarship is being undermined by a system that rewards appearance over substance.
