Speaking on Channel One TV on Friday, December 5, he said the Chief Examiner’s report for the 2025 English paper revealed widespread use of informal language, slang, and WhatsApp-style expressions.

He noted that many candidates struggled to express themselves in standard English, significantly impacting their essay-writing scores.

Markers identified “a lot of pidgin” alongside shorthand, jargon, and casual social media expressions — all of which have no place in a formal examination setting and signal a worrying decline in academic writing standards.

“If you look at the English report, for example, the Chief Examiner indicated there was a lot of pidgin in what the candidates wrote. They also referred to what they called ‘social media language’ or jargons — things we normally use on WhatsApp which are not formal. Especially in the English paper, some candidates could not use standard language, could not spell properly, and could not write their essays appropriately,” he said.

John Kapi added that beyond language misuse, many candidates struggled with spelling and constructing coherent sentences, reflecting gaps both in schools and at home.

He called for a coordinated response involving parents, teachers, and education authorities to reinforce proper language use from early childhood.

“We need to address this from home, from where the children grow up, and also examine whether the school system has enough support structures to help students learn. As a society, there is much we must do to put our children in a position to learn well,” he concluded.

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Speaking in an interview on Channel One TV, he revealed that the Chief Examiner’s report for the 2025 English paper highlighted widespread use of informal language, including slang, shorthand, and WhatsApp-style writing.

Markers detected “a lot of pidgin” in candidates’ essays, alongside casual expressions that “have no place in a formal examination setting,” he said, stressing that reliance on social media language is eroding students’ ability to communicate effectively in standard English.

“If you look at the English report, for example, the Chief Examiner indicated there was a lot of pidgin in what the candidates wrote. They also referred to what they called ‘social media language’ — jargons we normally use on WhatsApp, which are not formal,” he noted.

Mr. Kapi further highlighted that beyond inappropriate language, many students struggled with basic spelling and sentence construction, reflecting broader challenges within homes, schools, and society.

“Especially in the English paper, some candidates could not use standard language, could not spell properly, and could not construct appropriate sentences for their essays,” he said.

He called for a coordinated response from parents, teachers, and education authorities to reinforce proper language use from early childhood.

“We need to address this from home, from where the children grow up, and also examine whether the school system has enough support structures to help students learn. As a society, there is much to do to put our children in a position to learn well,” he added.

His concerns come as WASSCE results show one of the steepest declines in performance in recent years. A1–C6 passes in Core Mathematics dropped from 305,132 in 2024 to 209,068 in 2025 — a fall of over 96,000 candidates, translating to a pass rate of just 48.73%.

Further analysis reveals that nearly one in four students failed both Core Mathematics and Social Studies, pointing to deep-rooted academic challenges beyond language proficiency.

In Core Mathematics, 61.39 per cent of candidates obtained Grades A1–C6 in 2022, rising to 66.23 per cent in 2023 and 66.86 per cent in 2024, before dropping sharply to 48.73 per cent in 2025.

For English Language, 60.39 per cent passed in 2022, increasing to 73.11 per cent in 2023. The pass rate dipped slightly to 69.52 per cent in 2024 and stood at 69.00 per cent in 2025.

Performance in Integrated Science stood at 62.45 per cent in 2022, improved to 66.82 per cent in 2023, but declined to 58.77 per cent in 2024 and 57.74 per cent in 2025.

In Social Studies, the Council recorded 71.51 per cent in 2022, 76.76 per cent in 2023, and 71.53 per cent in 2024, before falling to 55.82 per cent in 2025.

WAEC said the 2025 results showed that 209,068 candidates (48.73%) obtained Grades A1–C6 in Core Mathematics. Additionally, 52,991 (11.62%) had D7, 52,145 (12.15%) obtained E8, and 114,872 (26.86%) recorded F9.

In English Language, 289,673 candidates (69.00%) secured A1–C6, while 37,712 (8.18%) obtained D7 and 54,294 (12.86%) recorded F9.

For Integrated Science, 220,806 candidates (57.74%) passed with A1–C6. WAEC added that 54,580 (11.85%) had D7, 45,783 (11.97%) scored E8, and 61,243 (16.05%) obtained F9.

In Social Studies, 248,538 candidates (55.82%) scored A1–C6, with 33,670 (7.38%) obtaining D7, 40,608 (9.12%) securing E8, and 122,449 (27.50%) recording F9.

Mr John Kapi, Director of Public Affairs at WAEC, speaking on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show on Tuesday, revealed that chief examiners noted a reliance on social media diction and non-standard English in candidates’ answers across all subjects.

In the English Language paper, students reportedly struggled with vocabulary and the proper use of standard English.

In Social Studies, candidates were not able to discuss topics such as government policies and the economic impact of Ghana’s expensive funerals.

Integrated Science scripts revealed difficulties in spelling scientific terms correctly, as well as challenges in drawing and illustrating key scientific concepts.

Mathematics also proved problematic, with candidates failing to handle even simple calculations, contributing to overall poor performance, Mr Kapi noted.

This year’s WASSCE recorded a marked decline, with Core Mathematics suffering the sharpest drop in performance.

A1–C6 passes fell from 305,132 in 2024 to 209,068 in 2025—representing a decline of more than 96,000 passes. With a pass rate of just 48.73%, more than half of the candidates failed to secure the grades required for tertiary education.

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Many students reportedly struggled to employ appropriate words in articulating their answers across various examination questions.

“The weaknesses they (Chief Examiners) include poor use of vocabulary. They reported that most candidates face challenges in their use of the appropriate vocabulary to express themselves, especially in the section where they were to provide appropriate synonyms for the listed words from the passage,” he said on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show on Tuesday, December 2.

He added that “They also indicated that there was a poor use of language. And then the final one was the poor analysis of the text that was made available to them.”

Meanwhile, he noted that the candidates performed well in the essay component. “With the English Language, the Chief Examiners were clear that the candidates were able to select the appropriate essays for the relevant points.”

WAEC raised the concerns following the release of the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), particularly in the core subjects, including English Language, Mathematics, Integrated Science and Social Studies.

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Core Mathematics recorded the most dramatic drop, with A1–C6 passes falling from 305,132 in 2024 to 209,068 in 2025—a reduction of over 96,000 passes. With a national pass rate of 48.73%, the majority of candidates failed to attain the grades required for entry into tertiary institutions.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s The Point of View, Mr. Kapi said chief examiners found the 2025 Core Mathematics paper to be of the same standard as the previous year, indicating that the poor results stemmed largely from students’ weaknesses rather than the difficulty of the exam.

He outlined seven critical areas where candidates struggled:

• Difficulty representing mathematical information in diagrams
• Inability to solve global mathematics-related problems
• Poor construction of cumulative frequency tables
• Weakness in making deductions from real-life situations
• Challenges solving simple interest questions
• Inability to translate word problems into mathematical expressions
• Difficulty interpreting results from cumulative frequency data

In Social Studies, examiners also flagged gaps in comprehension and analytical skills. Mr. Kapi highlighted that candidates were unable to:

• Write about government policies designed to improve citizens’ lives
• Explain how costly funerals negatively affect national development
• Discuss forms of cooperation between Ghana and United Nations agencies

WAEC stated that these findings will inform targeted interventions aimed at strengthening teaching and learning across the country.

In a statement released on December 1, 2025, and signed by Daniel Fenyi, Head of Public Relations at GES, the Service described the assertions as “misleading” and advised the public to disregard them.

The statement noted that the claims appear to be an attempt to shift attention from the former minister’s own handling of the examination process.

GES also refuted allegations that teachers’ allowances were cancelled, clarifying that the Controller and Accountant-General’s Department had already explained the reasons for the November payment delays.

According to the Service, the 2025 WASSCE was conducted under strict supervision, enhanced invigilation, and rigorous enforcement of rules, which led to the arrest of some students and staff attempting examination malpractice.

These measures, management said, helped restore integrity to the examination system.

GES emphasized that the 2025 results accurately reflect students’ academic abilities. With Ghana set to rejoin the international WASSCE in May/June 2026, the Service urged students to prepare adequately and assured the public of its continued efforts with stakeholders to improve teaching, learning, and examination standards.

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Speaking on the JOY Super Morning Show, Mr Kapi highlighted seven areas where candidates struggled, including representing mathematical information in diagrams, solving global math-related problems, constructing cumulative frequency tables, making deductions from real-life problems, solving simple interest applications, translating word problems into mathematical expressions, and interpreting results from cumulative frequency data.

“These are areas that the chief examiners can observe weaknesses in the candidates’ performance. Obviously, these are not topics that are outside the syllabus or the test blueprint,” he explained.

WAEC’s provisional results for the 2025 WASSCE show that more than half of the candidates, 220,008 out of 461,736, failed Core Mathematics, marking the worst performance in the subject in seven years.

Data released by WAEC shows a staggering drop in the percentage of candidates achieving grades A1 to C6 in Core Mathematics, falling by nearly 18 percentage points compared to the previous year.

Only 48.73% of candidates attained grades A1 to C6 in 2025. This represents a massive collapse from the 66.86% achieved in 2024. A total of 209,068 candidates passed with A1-C6, but 114,872 candidates (26.77%) failed the subject outright with an F9 grade.

A total of 1,021 schools registered candidates for the examination, representing a slight 0.24% increase over 2024, while 5,821 candidates (1.26%) were absent.

John Kapi stressed that the decline in performance does not reflect a deviation from the curriculum but indicates the need for strengthened teaching and student focus on practical problem-solving skills.

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An analysis of the official data reveals that the percentage of candidates who failed Core Mathematics outright (Grade F9) has nearly quadrupled, rising from 6.10% in 2024 to an alarming 26.77% in 2025.

Similarly, the failure rate for Social Studies has almost tripled in just one year, increasing from 9.55% in 2024 to 27.50% in 2025.

The Great Collapse: F9 Rates Spike Across the Board

The sharp rise in F9 grades points to a dramatic decline in foundational knowledge among the 461,736 candidates who registered for the examination. The steepest increases were recorded in the core subjects crucial for tertiary education admission.

In Core Mathematics, the F9 rate soared by 20.67 percentage points — jumping from 6.10% in 2024 to 26.77% in 2025. This means nearly one out of every four students failed the subject outright.

For Social Studies, the F9 rate also rose sharply from 9.55% in 2024 to 27.50% in 2025, representing an 188% increase.

Even the core literacy and science subjects recorded more than double their previous failure rates:

Integrated Science:
The F9 rate increased from 7.12% in 2024 to 16.05% in 2025 — an 8.93 percentage point rise.

English Language:
The failure rate more than doubled, rising from 5.88% in 2024 to 12.86% in 2025.

If you want, I can continue with causes, expert reactions, implications, or recommendations.

Integrity Crisis: Thousands Penalised for Malpractice

The release of the provisional results by WAEC on November 29, 2025, was also marred by an unprecedented crackdown on examination malpractice.

The Ghana Examinations Committee approved severe sanctions against thousands of candidates and dozens of educational personnel.

Key sanctions include:

• Subject Results Cancelled: 6,295 candidates had their subject results annulled for bringing unauthorized materials like notes, textbooks, and printed material into the examination hall.
• Entire Results Cancelled: The results of 653 candidates were canceled entirely for the possession of mobile phones in the examination hall.
• Withheld Results: The subject results of 908 candidates and the entire results of 158 candidates remain withheld pending investigations into various suspected offences.
• School Collusion: Results for candidates from 185 schools were withheld for alleged collusion.

In addition, 35 persons, including 19 teachers, who compromised the integrity of the examination face legal and disciplinary action. Already, 19 of those individuals have been arraigned before court and convicted to fines or prison terms.

After the exams, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) publishes the provisional results for candidates across the region.

But do you know the steps involved in checking your WASSCE results online? If not, there’s no need to worry.

This guide highlights the three essential things you need to access either your WASSCE School or WASSCE Private (NOV/DEC) results with ease.

An index number, examination year, and a valid e-voucher containing a PIN and serial number are the three things needed to see your grades.

WASSCE Index Number

An index number is a unique identifier assigned to each candidate who registers for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). It is used to identify candidates and access their results.

Examination Year

The examination year refers to the year in which the candidate sat for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination. Candidates are required to provide this year on the WASSCE result-checking portal.

A Result Voucher

The third requirement is a valid WASSCE result checker card or e-voucher, which contains a PIN and Serial Number.
The code for buying a WASSCE result checker card is *713*3998#. Alternatively, you can visit buycheckercodes.com.gh to purchase your WASSCE or NOV/DEC result checker.

How to check your WASSCE results online

With your purchased result checker card (Serial and PIN) using *713*3998#, follow the steps below to check your results:

1. Visit the WASSCE results portal at ghana.waecdirect.org
2. Enter your Index Number.
3. Select the Type of Examination (e.g., WASSCE/NOVDEC).
4. Select your Examination Year.
5. Enter the Serial Number found on the Result Voucher.
6. Enter the 12-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN) on your Result Voucher (e.g., 012345678912).
7. Confirm your Index Number and Examination Year to ensure the information is correct.
8. Click the Submit button and wait for the display in the pop-up window. This may take a few minutes, but it’s worth the wait.

Conclusion

Students who completed SHS in earlier years can use these steps to check their results. SHS graduates awaiting this year’s WASSCE results can also follow the instructions above once WAEC officially announces their release.

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In a letter dated September 15, the MP said his intervention followed concerns raised by the school’s headmaster, management committee, parents, and affected students.

The results were initially withheld on allegations of collusion, with the candidates later invited to WAEC’s Regional Office in August for inquiries. According to the petitioners, the students wrote the paper independently and were assured that a decision would be communicated.

However, on September 12, they were informed that their results had been cancelled, a move that has left the students distressed and uncertain about their educational future.

Mr Asenso-Boakye has therefore appealed to WAEC to urgently review and reinstate the results to enable the candidates to take part in the upcoming senior high school placement exercise scheduled for September 17.

As an alternative, he proposed that the affected students be given an early opportunity to re-sit the paper.

“Given the emotional impact on the children and the looming deadlines for SHS placement, I kindly request that this matter be given your earliest and most sympathetic attention,” his petition read.

Source: Adomonline

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Speaking in an exclusive interview with Adom News, GNAT General Secretary, Thomas Musah, said the rising incidents of cheating during the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) pose a serious threat to the credibility of the country’s education system.

“It’s time WAEC moves beyond traditional means and invests in real-time monitoring technology that can detect and deter malpractices as they happen,” Mr. Musah stressed.

He proposed the installation of surveillance cameras and other digital monitoring devices in examination centres nationwide. According to him, such interventions would not only check candidates but also hold invigilators accountable, amid growing concerns about their alleged complicity in exam fraud.

“We’re not just dealing with student misconduct; there are also worrying reports about invigilators and supervisors being involved. Technology can be a game-changer if used proactively,” he noted.

This year’s BECE and WASSCE were marred by reports of leaked papers, impersonation, and organised cheating schemes, sparking public outrage and raising questions about the effectiveness of existing security protocols.

Mr. Musah insisted that last-minute crackdowns and post-exam investigations are no longer enough. He urged WAEC to collaborate with the Ghana Education Service (GES), the Ministry of Education, and security agencies to design and deploy digital surveillance systems that operate in real time during exams.

He further appealed to stakeholders, including parents, school heads, and teacher unions, to educate students on the value of integrity in academic work.

“Examinations are meant to assess knowledge, not reward shortcuts. If we don’t act now, we risk breeding a generation that believes in results without effort,” he warned.

GNAT’s appeal adds to mounting pressure on WAEC to reform its operations and align with global best practices in examination management.

Source: Kodwo Mensah Aboroampa

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]]> https://www.adomonline.com/2577767-2/ Fri, 12 Sep 2025 11:47:55 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2577767 The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced plans to introduce computer-based testing (CBT) for some of its examinations in a bid to curb malpractice in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

Speaking on Channel One TV on Friday, September 12, WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, revealed that the Council has already held technical discussions and intends to pilot the initiative soon.

“Gradually, we are also thinking about computer-based testing… We want to pilot that with one of our small examinations, the General and Advanced Business Certificate Examination,” Mr. Kapi said.

He explained that the pilot will take place in regional capitals where internet connectivity is stable. If successful, the system will later be rolled out to larger examinations such as WASSCE and BECE.

Meanwhile, at least 14 people—including teachers, students, and invigilators—have been arrested across the country for their involvement in malpractice in the ongoing WASSCE.

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Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, he explained that while WAEC administers the BECE, key aspects of the examination process are directly under the control of GES.

“For example, the selection of supervisors and invigilators is done by the district exams officer,” he disclosed.

He emphasized that when irregularities occur during the conduct of the examination, WAEC relies on GES to take swift and appropriate action.

“And so when these issues come up, once the feedback goes to them, we [WAEC] expect that they would react appropriately and ensure that the right action is taken against the people,” he said.

The revelation follows a JoyNews Hotline investigation by Francisca Enchil, which uncovered shocking collusion between GES officials, supervisors, headteachers, and invigilators at two centres in Accra—Derby Avenue RC Basic School and St. George’s Anglican Basic School.

Investigators found invigilators demanding daily “tokens” of GH¢60, supervisors pocketing envelopes of GH¢400, and candidates contributing to a so-called “Aseda Offertory.”

Mr. Kapi condemned the conduct of such officials, stating, “These are people who certainly have not proved that they are worthy of the trust that we repose in them. As far as this job is concerned…”

When asked by host Evans Mensah about WAEC’s own disciplinary measures, Mr. Kapi confirmed that the Council’s strongest action is to permanently exclude culprits from future assignments.

“Yes, that is what we really do. We blacklist them. They no longer take part in any activity that has to do with the West African Examinations Council,” he said.

Source: Abubakar Ibrahim

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Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, WAEC’s Director of Public Affairs, John Kapi, said the Council cannot continue to work with individuals who have betrayed the trust placed in them during national examinations.

“These are people who certainly have not proved that they are worthy of the trust that we repose in them,” he stated.

He added that most decisions regarding the BECE are handled by the Ghana Education Service (GES). “For example, the selection of supervisors and invigilators is done by the district exams officer,” he explained.

Kapi’s comments follow a JoyNews Hotline investigation led by GH Probe’s Francisca Enchil, which uncovered alarming levels of collusion at examination centres.

At Derby Avenue RC Basic School and St. George’s Anglican Basic School in Accra, invigilators were reportedly demanding GH¢60 daily “tokens,” supervisors pocketed envelopes containing GH¢400, and candidates were asked to contribute to an “Aseda Offertory.”

John Kapi emphasized that once WAEC provides feedback on such incidents, it is the responsibility of GES to take decisive action. “When these issues come up, once the feedback goes to them, we [WAEC] expect that they would react appropriately and ensure that the right action is taken against the people,” he said.

Pressed by host Evans Mensah on how WAEC deals with compromised officials, Mr. Kapi was unequivocal: “Yes, that is what we really do. We blacklist them. They no longer take part in any activity that has to do with the West African Examinations Council.”

Source: Abubakar Ibrahim

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In a statement issued on Friday, September 5, WAEC announced that the results are now accessible on the Council’s website, www.waecgh.org, where candidates can check their performance online.

According to the Council, a total of 1,661 candidates, 858 males and 803 females, registered for the private examination, which was conducted at 15 centres across the country. Thirty-one of the registered candidates, however, were absent.

WAEC further disclosed that the results of three candidates have been withheld pending investigations into alleged examination malpractice.

Candidates affected by withheld or cancelled results have been advised to visit the Council’s website and check the “withheld/cancelled” section for updates and next steps.

The Council also cautioned candidates to beware of fraudsters who claim they can upgrade results for a fee, stressing that WAEC results are secure and verifiable.

WAEC expressed appreciation to key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Service, security agencies, supervisors, invigilators, examiners, and heads of schools, for their contributions towards the successful conduct of the examination.

Source: Adomonline

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Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, John Kapi, told a press briefing on Friday, September 5, 2025, that the move was necessary to safeguard the integrity of the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

He explained that the affected candidates have been relocated to WAEC’s regional office in Kumasi, where they will continue their papers under stricter supervision.

This incident adds to a growing list of malpractice cases recorded during this year’s exams, with at least 14 teachers, students, and invigilators arrested nationwide.

WAEC has assured the public that results from all implicated centres will undergo thorough scrutiny before publication.

Source: AdomOnline

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In a press statement on August 23, 2025, WAEC confirmed that results have been sent to schools through the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Directors of Education. Candidates can also check their results online at www.waecgh.org.

According to John Kapi, Head of Public Affairs, the release follows extensive investigations into irregularities recorded during the examination and marking process. Following the review, the 36th Meeting of the Final Awards and Examiners’ Appointment Committee approved the following sanctions:

• Subject results of 718 candidates cancelled

• Entire results of 177 candidates cancelled

• Subject results of 1,240 candidates withheld

• Entire results of 93 candidates withheld

This brings the total number of cancelled results to 895 and withheld results to 1,333.

Additionally, subject results from 119 schools were cancelled, while results from 87 schools remain under investigation. The final outcome of these cases will be determined by September 6, 2025, when withheld results will either be released or cancelled.

Candidates affected by withheld or cancelled results can check details via https://irreg.waec.org or by selecting the “withheld/cancelled results” tab on WAEC’s homepage. School authorities can also access the information using their official login credentials.

WAEC has warned candidates and the public against engaging with fraudsters claiming they can upgrade results for a fee, emphasizing that all results issued are authentic, tamper-proof, and verifiable.

WAEC also expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Education, Ghana Education Service, security agencies, invigilators, school heads, examiners, and other stakeholders for their support in ensuring the smooth conduct of the 2025 BECE and the release of results.

Source: Adomonline

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Out of a total of 441,751 candidates who sat for the examination in 2021, 10,386 were involved in malpractice. In 2022, out of a total of 419,151 candidates who wrote the examinations, 29,291 were caught for malpractice.

Similarly, in 2023, out of a total of 445,160 candidates, 44,586 were involved in malpractice, while in 2024, out of a total of 457,554 candidates who took part in the final examinations, a whopping 62,046 candidates were involved in malpractice, representing 13.6 per cent of the candidates.

2024 regional breakdown

Out of the 62,046 malpractices recorded in 2024, Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo had the highest with 25,765, followed by the Ashanti Region with 24,580, while the Central Region recorded 5,713. Eastern had 2,246, with the Greater Accra Region recording 2,047.

Some selected senior high school students

Northern, Savanna and North-East regions recorded a total of 680, while Volta and Oti also recorded 614, with Western and Western North having 336. Upper East and Upper West had 34 and 31, respectively.

The number of candidates involved in malpractice in the Bono, Bono East and Ahafo regions as a percentage of the total number of candidates who sat for the examination in each region shows an increasing trend over the four years, while the remaining regions show a fluctuating trend.

Seminar

The acting Head, Accra Section of the Research Department of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Kwaku Dankwa, disclosed this during a seminar in Kumasi in the Ashanti Region last Tuesday, July 29, 2025.

It was to disseminate a study conducted by WAEC on the topic “Combating examination malpractice: An evaluation of WAEC’s interventions.”

The event, organised by WAEC and held at the auditorium of the Kumasi Anglican Senior High School, brought together final year students of 10 SHSs, heads of SHSs, examiners, and officials of the Ghana Education Service (GES).

The ceremony provided the opportunity for the outcome of the study to be shared among the participants in a bid to help deal with examination malpractice, which continues to cast a slur on Ghana’s education system.

He said data for the past four years depicted an increasing trend in examination malpractice, adding, “If many candidates are involved in malpractice annually, it does not speak well of the examination.”

“People are having certificates that they cannot defend due to malpractice. It does not reflect their strength because they were allowed to cheat in the examinations, which will not help WAEC as well,” he pointed out.

Bring down education

Mr. Dankwa stated that the current situation was a national problem, which had the tendency to bring down the country’s education system and indicated the need for all relevant stakeholders to come together to deal with it.

Attack on officials

He expressed worry about instances where examination officers, invigilators and other officials were physically attacked at centres by students after being prevented from cheating in the examinations.

“Sadly, students are becoming angrier and hardened who think that copying or cheating in examinations is their right.

So anybody who wants to be an impediment to them by preventing them from cheating is attacked,” he said.

The Ashanti Regional Director, GES, Dr William Kwame Amankrah Appiah, who also chaired the ceremony, underscored the need to safeguard the integrity of the examinations by ensuring that students do not engage in any form of malpractice.

Graphic

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Head of Research at WAEC, Kwaku Dankwa, explains some teachers take money from candidates and allow cheating because they believe the WAEC invigilation fee is insufficient.

Speaking at a sensitization program for over 300 WASSCE candidates in Kumasi, Mr. Dankwa emphasized that low fees should not justify anyone’s involvement in exam malpractice, as it poses a risk to Ghana’s future development.

He cited the 2024 exam malpractice rate of 13.6%, which invalidates the exams and undermines the value of Ghanaian certificates.

“Many certificate holders can’t use their credentials to apply to universities because they don’t reflect their true abilities due to exam malpractice,” he stated.

Mr. Dankwa warned that if this trend continues, Ghana’s education system will deteriorate, and the country will not have quality individuals for high positions.

WAEC has an act that punishes those involved in exam malpractice, including WAEC staff, teachers, and students, with court proceedings possible.

Mr. Dankwa urged that the education system helps punish those supporting malpractice to serve as deterrent.

The sensitization program included staff, students, WAEC officials, and the Ashanti Regional Education Directorate, aimed at advising students ahead of the 2025 WASSCE.

Speaking on The Pulse on Joy News on Monday, June 30, the Head of Public Relations at GES, Daniel Fenyi, stated that despite the prevailing security concerns, adequate measures are being put in place to ensure that candidates can write their examinations without obstruction.

“The assurance they can get from us as the Ghana Education Service is that they won’t miss the WASSCE. We are putting in place every measure to ensure that they write the WASSCE with their colleagues all across the country, and we are making sure that the conflict goes beyond them so they can’t be punished for what they didn’t cause. So I can assure them that they will not miss this examination,” he said.

Mr. Fenyi’s comments follow the violent incidents that erupted in the municipality last week, claiming the lives of four individuals, including a final-year student of Nkwanta Senior High School who was reportedly killed by a stray bullet while taking his mock examination.

The incident has since led to the temporary closure of all schools in the area.

He emphasised that GES is committed to protecting the academic progression of students, particularly those at critical transitional stages, and will not allow the unrest to derail their educational journey.

Three other residents have also been confirmed dead as a result of the violence, which has heightened fear among parents and school authorities.

Security forces have since been deployed to the area to maintain order and restore calm.

Speaking at the 2025 WAEC Distinction Awards Ceremony on Thursday, June 26, the Minister commended WAEC and the Ghana Education Service (GES) for the successful organization of the nationwide exam but stressed the importance of timely results.

“Let me commend you for a very successful BECE examination. What we expect from you now is the early, timely release of the results so that anxiety and anxiousness in the students will go down,” he said.

Mr. Iddrisu also announced plans to introduce a legislative framework to reform the country’s scholarship system.

He revealed that the Ghana Scholarship Authority Bill would soon be presented to Parliament on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama.

“In the coming weeks, I will introduce the Ghana Scholarship Authority Bill to Parliament, as promised by President Mahama, to address concerns of nepotism in the scholarship award process,” he stated.

The Minister appealed to the Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Education, Peter Nortsu Kotoe, and other lawmakers to support the bill when it is laid before the House.

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According to the Council, this is due to alleged malpractices recorded at some examination centres across the country.

Head of Public Relations at WAEC, John Kapi, revealed this on The Big Agenda on Adom TV.

He stated that 25 individuals have been arrested by the police for engaging in various forms of examination malpractice.

“This year’s number is high, especially considering the calibre of persons allegedly involved in the misconduct. They include supervisors, headmasters, teachers, and invigilators,” Mr. Kapi disclosed.

He further explained that some of the arrested individuals attempted to solve questions for candidates, while others took pictures of the questions and sent them to people outside to solve.

“In some instances, we arrested people who had photos of the questions on their phones, while others had answers stored, ready to be passed to candidates,” he said.

Mr. Kapi emphasized that all these cases are under investigation, and anyone found guilty will face the full rigours of the law.

He also noted that the Council has seen a viral video of a candidate praising invigilators for allegedly helping them solve some of the questions. He added that WAEC is looking into the matter and will take appropriate action if the investigation confirms the claim.

When host Kwasi Nsiah asked Mr. Kapi if there would be any cancellations this year, he responded:

“Yes, because there have been various forms of alleged cheating. For any paper where our investigations confirm malpractice, that paper will be cancelled,” he stressed.

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According to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), a total of 603,328 candidates have registered for this year’s examination.

This figure comprises 297,250 males and 306,078 females from 20,395 schools across the country.

WAEC noted that this represents a 5.99% increase compared to the 569,236 candidates who registered in 2024.

In addition, the Council confirmed that 1,661 private candidates—858 males and 803 females—will also sit for the exams. This marks a 19.49% rise from the 2024 private candidate entry of 1,390.

The examination will take place at 2,237 centres nationwide, with an additional 14 centres, mainly located in regional capitals, designated for private candidates.

WAEC has indicated that this will be the final year private candidates will write the BECE under the old syllabus.

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According to the release, the exams will begin on Wednesday, June 10, 2025, and end on Wednesday, June 18.

Candidates will start with Social Studies and Computing on the opening day.

WAEC noted that both Papers 2 and 1 for each subject are to be taken in one sitting without a break.

Earlier, the Council announced that a total of 603,328 candidates have registered to sit for this year’s BECE. This figure includes 297,250 males and 306,078 females from 20,395 schools across the country.

WAEC also confirmed that 1,661 private candidates, comprising 858 males and 803 females, will participate in the examination this year. This number represents a 19.49% increase over the 2024 private candidate entry of 1,390.

The examination will be conducted at 2,237 centres nationwide, with an additional 14 centres—mainly in regional capitals—dedicated to private candidates.

Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), Professor Ernest Davies, has assured the public that all necessary preparations have been made to ensure a smooth and successful examination process.

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Head of Humanities at WAEC, Daniel Nii Dodoo, disclosed these alarming findings during the National Stakeholders Conference on Examination Malpractices.

Dwelling on data from 2021 to 2023, Mr. Dodoo emphasised that these three regions consistently recorded the highest number of cheating incidents across both basic and secondary school examinations.

“This trend is worrying and calls for urgent intervention,” Mr. Dodoo noted, stressing the need for targeted efforts to curb malpractice and safeguard the credibility of national exams.

Echoing this sentiment, WAEC Ghana’s Head, Dr. Rosemond Wilson, made a passionate appeal for a united front against exam cheating.

“Certificates must reflect hard work and true merit, not dishonest shortcuts,” she said. Dr. Wilson warned that unchecked malpractices risk producing inadequately prepared professionals, with potentially dire consequences for critical sectors such as healthcare, education among others.

Despite these challenges, WAEC has assured the public of its readiness to conduct the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) smoothly, starting this Wednesday.

Head of Public Relations at WAEC, John Kapi confirmed that comprehensive sensitisation campaigns have been completed for candidates, supervisors, invigilators, directors, and all key officials involved in the examination process.

“We are prepared and confident that all stakeholders understand their roles and responsibilities to ensure a fair and credible examination,” Mr. Kapi stated.

As the BECE season kicks off, WAEC’s focus remains clear: rigorously uphold exam integrity.

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Irregularities in withheld subject results have increased by 16,000% in the last five years, whilst subject results cancelled rose by 269%.

This escalating crisis, the council says, undermines national integrity, producing an ill-prepared workforce that jeopardizes competitiveness in the changing global economy.

Subject results withheld increased from 3,235 in 2020 to 522,891 in 2024, whilst subject results cancelled rose from 10,496 to 38,693.

Conversely, entire subject cancellations decreased by 9.41%, dropping from 510 in 2020 to 462 in 2024.

Head of Humanities at WAEC, Daniel Nii Duodu, warns that the escalating malpractices erode educational credibility, affecting the long-term development of the nation.

“After the results are released, others also came up which beefed up the figures. Erosion of educational integrity. As instances of cheating and unethical behavior increase, the credibility of our academic system is severely undermined.

“This decline in educational integrity results in a workforce that is not only ill-prepared, but fundamentally incapable of meeting the demands and rapidly evolving global economy: A generation of graduates lacking essential skills and knowledge threatens our national competitiveness and long-term development and ultimately jeopardises the future prosperity of gravity, he said.

He was addressing the theme, “Examination Malpractice, a National Security Concern,” during a highly focused deliberation with the WAEC that assembled heads of education stakeholders to devise stringent and futuristic solutions to exam malpractices.

The West African Examination Council (WAEC) is waging an all-out war against the rising rates of examination malpractices, as perpetrators now utilize sophisticated methods of technology.

John Kappi is the Head of Public Affairs at WAEC.

“Despite all methods to clamp down malpractices, the illegal acts had metamorphosed into sophisticated methods. Using Electronic communication devices, sourcing answers from AI platforms during exams, students now employ teachers, printers nearby to supply already-answered question booklets.

“The body mandated to conduct an examination, which has conducted examination for the past seven decades, we do not absolve ourselves of the blame and responsibility to tackle this canker hands-on,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Kumasi branch controller, Ernest Akoto, is emphasizing the need for urgent and collective action against malpractices.

“The council says the unethical behavior being championed by students, heads of schools and other respected stakeholders is undermining the integrity of the examination. This is why we are having and will have consistent engagements to consolidate ideas and solutions,” he said.

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With the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) just three months away, WAEC has expressed deep concern over coordinated cheating schemes, some reportedly involving entire schools in premeditated malpractice.

According to the Council, such unethical practices, often facilitated by students, school authorities, and even trusted stakeholders, pose a serious threat to the credibility and integrity of the examination process.

In response, WAEC has convened a high-level stakeholder engagement, bringing together key players in the education sector to develop robust, future-focused strategies to address the problem.

John Kapi, Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, acknowledged the scale of the challenge.

“Examination malpractice, as we speak, is on the rise. Coupled with this era of ICT, it may be difficult to fight. We have fought it. If we had left it, it would have gotten out of hand. It hasn’t gotten out of hand, but we don’t wait for it to get out of hand.

“That’s why we called for this stakeholder engagement to tap into the expertise and experiences of all of us in education,” he said.

WAEC maintains that protecting the integrity of examinations is a shared responsibility that demands collective action across the education ecosystem.

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The Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, disclosed this in an interview with Accra-based Citi News.

According to him, there are currently no outstanding results.

“As we promised, we kept to our promises. So by the close of February 28, we had uploaded all the results of the candidates whose results had been withheld.

“The court had ordered that we should release the results of those candidates. And so we’ve gone ahead with all the results. So we don’t have any outstanding results as far as those exams are concerned,” he stated.

Mr. Kapi noted that although the Council anticipates complaints in the coming days, the released results reflect the actual performance of the candidates.

“Well, the 28th was a Friday, and so we assume that people are still waiting until the beginning of the week to begin calling the office and registering complaints. But, again, I think that whatever we have put out there is a true reflection of the performance of the candidates in the examination,” he added.

The exam body had withheld over 10,000 results following the provisional release in December 2024.

The results were withheld over suspected malpractices, which were investigated amidst a legal action against WAEC.

The Accra High Court on February 1, 2025, ordered WAEC to release the results, following which there were threats of protests.

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However, the subject results of 303 candidates and the entire results of 108 candidates have been withheld.

The exam body noted that during the examination and subsequent marking process, instances of malpractice were detected, hence the results withheld, pending the conclusion of investigations.

In a statement, WAEC explained that 38,316 candidates participated in the examination, including 17,596 males and 21,131 females, with 1,354 registered candidates absent.

Meanwhile, WAEC has cautioned the public against scammers who promise to upgrade examination results for a fee.

The Council assures that its results database is secure, and all results can be authenticated.

Institutions and organizations are encouraged to verify results directly from WAEC or use the online verification service at [www.waecgh.org](www.waecgh.org).

WAEC expresses its sincere gratitude to all stakeholders who supported the successful conduct of the examination and the release of results.

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Read the full statement below:

The protest, originally scheduled for Tuesday, February 25, aimed to pressure WAEC into releasing the results of affected students, many of whom face uncertainty regarding university admissions and their academic future.

However, just hours before the demonstration, NUGS announced on its social media platforms that the protest had been suspended following new commitments made by WAEC.

According to a statement from NUGS, the decision came after an emergency meeting with WAEC officials and the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), during which WAEC assured that all pending withheld results would be released by March 1, 2025.

“Following an emergency meeting with WAEC officials and the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, NUGS has suspended the planned demonstration scheduled for February 25, 2025. WAEC has given firm assurances that all pending withheld results will be released by March 1, 2025,” the statement read.

The controversy began when WAEC withheld and canceled the results of several students over alleged examination malpractice, affecting hundreds across the country and sparking outrage among students, parents, and educational stakeholders.

NUGS had initially demanded that WAEC release the results or provide transparency on the reasons behind the decision.

The union argued that withholding the results had far-reaching consequences for affected students, particularly those applying for university admissions and scholarships.

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WAEC had withheld the results of about 10,000 WASSCE candidates across multiple subjects, citing alleged examination malpractices and irregularities in its December 30, 2024, announcement.

However, on January 30, 2025, the High Court ruled in favor of four students who had petitioned on behalf of all affected candidates.

The court ordered WAEC to release the results without any prejudicial footnotes, stating that the council’s justification for withholding them was ambiguous and inconsistent.

The court further held that keeping the results indefinitely could hinder the academic and professional progress of the students.

Despite this ruling, WAEC filed for a stay of execution pending an appeal.

However, during a hearing on February 20, 2025, presiding judge Justice Ali Baba Abature dismissed the application, ruling that WAEC had failed to provide sufficient justification for its actions.

The court also imposed a GHS 5,000 fine on WAEC.

Despite the overall success of the exams, WAEC flagged several cases of malpractice, including photocopying answers, smuggling mobile phones, and collusion in exam halls. Investigations are ongoing.

However, NUGS has criticised WAEC’s handling of the matter, arguing that thousands of students have been unfairly affected by the cancellations and delays.

The protest is scheduled for Tuesday, February 25, starting at 9:00 am, with participants expected to gather at the Obra Spot at Kwame Nkrumah Circle, Accra.

In a statement, NUGS President Daniel Korley Botchway confirmed that the Greater Accra Regional Police Command had been notified.

“This demonstration is a protest against what we see as an injustice and an abuse of discretionary power by WAEC,” portions of the statement read.

NUGS has called on all affected students and stakeholders to join the protest in a united stand for justice.

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Below is the full statement:

According to the parents, WAEC’s decision has caused undue stress and uncertainty for their children, who risk missing out on tertiary admissions.

Their lawyer, Mr. Antwi Adjei, told Adom News at the Sunyani High Court that over 400 parents have joined the legal action, arguing that their children’s results were unfairly withheld.

The parents are demanding the immediate release of the results, emphasizing that any further delay could jeopardize the students’ academic future.

WAEC has yet to officially respond to the lawsuit.

The case is currently before the Sunyani High Court, with the next hearing scheduled for March 10, 2025.

The parents remain hopeful for a favorable ruling that will allow their children to access their results and proceed with their education.

Some parents have also appealed directly to WAEC, urging the examination body to expedite the process and release the withheld results to prevent further disruptions to their children’s academic progress.

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At a press conference, the PTA expressed outrage over the West African Examinations Council’s (WAEC) decision to withhold the results.

They described it as an “inhumane stance” that has disrupted the academic progress of the students.

They argue that WAEC had sufficient time to complete any necessary investigations without jeopardizing university admissions.

“The emotional and psychological trauma inflicted on our children is unacceptable,” the PTA stated. “We are giving WAEC the opportunity to rectify this injustice by releasing the results immediately.”

The association has threatened to stage a protest with the affected students if the results are not released promptly.

Parents and students plan to march wearing red bands to express their frustration over what they describe as an unfair delay.

This demand adds to the growing pressure on WAEC, following similar calls from the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) and other educational stakeholders.

WAEC has yet to issue an official response regarding the situation.

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At a press conference on Friday, February 7, WAEC revealed that investigations into alleged malpractice and irregularities are nearing completion.

John Kapi, the Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, expressed confidence that the council would conclude its probe and release the withheld results by the set date.

“The Council has continued its hearing for the affected candidates and has been releasing results as appropriate. The Council wishes to assure all stakeholders that all cases of malpractice will be finalized, and results released by February 28,” Mr. Kapi stated.

The assurance follows a legal battle and threats from the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) to stage nationwide protests over the withheld results.

Despite the overall success of the exams, WAEC reported several instances of malpractice, including photocopying answers, hiding foreign materials, smuggling mobile phones, and collusion in exam halls.

Acknowledging the legal battle, Mr. Kapi noted that the increase in malpractice cases was alarming and urged all stakeholders to speak out against the issue to maintain the credibility of the examination.

WAEC has withheld over 10,500 results due to suspected malpractice.

In response to widespread controversy and anxiety among parents and candidates, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu filed a motion for Mandamus on behalf of the affected candidates.

On Friday, January 30, 2025, the High Court in Accra ordered WAEC to immediately release the withheld results. The court ruled that WAEC’s decision to withhold the results without clear reasons was unjustified, as the reasons given were ambiguous, citing both “alleged examination malpractice” and “alleged irregularities.”

Justice Ali Baba Abature, who presided over the case, emphasized that invigilators reported no malpractices or irregularities during the examination.

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Speaking in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Rev. Brew stated that this situation is not new, as WAEC has dealt with similar issues in the past.

“This issue of withholding results is not new; it has happened before. It is not novel, and it’s not the first time something like this has occurred,” he said.

He explained that WAEC follows a strict procedure in such matters.

“Before the exams, everyone knows the ground rules, and so when you breach those rules, the results will be withheld. The candidates and stakeholders are fully aware of this,” he added.

His comments come after the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS) issued a one-week ultimatum to WAEC, demanding the release of all withheld results or face nationwide protests.

NUGS President Daniel Korley Botchway warned at a press briefing on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, that the union would take action if WAEC failed to comply.

In response to these concerns, Rev. Brew clarified, that the process is being carried out according to their established procedures.

“We are not changing anything; we are simply following our procedures. A large chunk of the results has been processed, and decisions are being made. The majority of the malpractice cases have been dealt with,” he added.

He continued, “We understand the frustration of students and parents, but we are committed to ensuring fairness. We don’t like it when people, including NUGS, claim that we are not being fair.”

Regarding the outstanding results, Rev. Brew assured that by February 28, 2025, the investigations would be completed, and the rest of the results, which are few, would be released.

“By February 28, 2025, we expect to have completed all investigations, and we may release the rest of the results, which are just a few. Out of the 120 schools involved, 60 are yet to be addressed. We will deal with them and release the remaining results” he said.

WAEC ON WITHHELD RESULTS

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NUGS has threatened to embark on nationwide protests against the exam body if it fails to comply.

NUGS President Daniel Korley Botchway sounded the caution at a press briefing on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.

WAEC filed a stay of execution at the High Court on Thursday, January 30, against a court order directing the release of the withheld results.

“They should release it within a week, failing which, we are going to commence a series of protests occupying their offices nationwide. And we’ll make sure that we are going to make it uncomfortable for them.

“If they cannot do the work, they should inform the government of Ghana, for the government of Ghana to employ a new examination body,” he stated.

Aside from the protest, NUGS has vowed to take legal action against WAEC despite an ongoing case at the Accra High Court.

WAEC has withheld over 10,500 results of candidates who sat for the 2024 WASSCE due to suspected malpractice.

Amidst widespread controversy and anxiety among parents and their wards, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu filed a motion for Mandamus on behalf of the affected candidates.

The High Court in Accra on Friday, January 30, 2025, ordered WAEC to immediately release the withheld results of over 10,500 WASSCE candidates.

The court ruled that WAEC’s decision to withhold the results without providing exact reasons was unjustified, as the reasons given varied ambiguously between “alleged examination malpractice” and “alleged irregularities.”

Justice Ali Baba Abature, who presided over the case, emphasized that WAEC had invigilators who reported no malpractices or irregularities during the examination.

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The court ruled that WAEC’s decision to withhold the results without providing exact reasons was unjustified, as the reasons given varied ambiguously between “alleged examination malpractice” and “alleged irregularities.”

Justice Ali Baba Abature, who presided over the case, emphasized that WAEC had invigilators who reported no malpractices or irregularities during the examination.

The court’s decision came after a motion for Mandamus was filed by lawyers representing the affected candidates, led by Martin Kpebu.

The court noted that the continuous withholding of the exam results would hinder the future growth and development of the country, as the affected students are potential leaders and scientists.

WAEC had initially withheld the results of 10,516 candidates, citing alleged examination malpractice or irregularities.

In granting the application, the court considered the interest of the affected students and the potential harm caused by the withholding of their results.

The court’s ruling is a significant victory for the affected candidates and their families, who have been eagerly awaiting the release of their results.

“Upon a careful consideration of the Applicants’ motion, supporting affidavit, and exhibits attached as well as the Respondent’s affidavit in opposition together with the attachments and the Statement of Case filed by Counsel for Applicants, and after hearing the oral submissions of Counsels for both parties, the Application of the Applicants is granted because the Respondent withheld their results without giving them exact reasons why the results were withheld as the reasons ambiguously given varied from ‘alleged examination malpractice’ to ‘alleged irregularities’ contrary to the right of the Applicants to be informed precisely about the offences they committed,” Justice Abature said.

On the issue of the capacity of the Applicants on the non-availability of Power of Attorney from the other 10,516 (10,522) candidates, which is a requirement of Order 2, the Court said, “I am of the opinion that in respect of the circumstances of this case, Order 81 cures that defect especially as the named four (4) Applicants are not said not to be part of the affected students.”

“By reason of the foregoing, therefore, the Application of the Applicants is granted, taking into consideration the interest of the affected students, who are the future leaders, scientists, etc.

“Consequently, the Respondent is to, with immediate effect, release the results of the Applicants for the good of society.

“The continuous withholding of the exam results of the Applicants does not bode well for the future growth and development of the country, especially as the Respondent had invigilators who have not reported any malpractices/irregularities as mentioned by Counsel for Applicants, which was not denied by Counsel for the Respondent,” the Court ruled.

Applicants’ Argument

While moving the Application for Judicial Review of the refusal by WAEC to release the applicants’ results, Counsel prayed that the court compel WAEC to release the results.

“My Lord, it is also the case that some of the Universities have closed their portals and thereby denied Applicants and the 10,516 others the opportunity to apply to those Universities for the current academic year. One notable University that has closed its portal is the University of Ghana.

“Also indeed, KNUST has also closed its portal. My Lord, respectfully, further, bad faith by the Respondent is exhibited in “DA4,” where the Respondent states that ‘the results were withheld due to alleged involvement in examination irregularities’.

“It shows the Respondent’s probating and reprobating. In one instance in exhibit “DA7,” they say it is examination malpractice, and the same is also repeated in the results page. But when they get to exhibit “DA4,” which is a publication to the whole world, the Respondent says in exhibit “DA4” that they were involved in alleged examination irregularities.

“My Lord, when one looks at exhibit “DA2,” the Respondent simply says in page 1 that ‘these are rules and regulations for dealing with cases of irregularities.’ But in that exhibit “DA2,” there is no comprehensive definition of irregularities. Indeed, one only finds examples of irregularities.

“Consequently, it is our submission that this failure to pin Applicants to a specific irregularity is a grave violation of the rights of the Applicants as earlier submitted,” Counsel argued.

Similarly, he argued that “there is no comprehensive definition of malpractice in exhibit ‘DA2.’ So once again, Applicants are left groping in the dark as to exactly what they have done wrong notwithstanding all the protection that Applicants and the 10,516 others have been afforded by the Constitution 1992.

“Counsel added that the right to a fair trial/investigation is inalienable for Applicants; they acquired it at birth, and so that right predates the Constitution 1992.

“That is why the Constitution says those rights are guaranteed. Our point is that these rights cannot be toyed with by the Respondent just like that.

“My Lord, from the quote above, it is clear that the Respondent in this case has acted very unreasonably with the Applicants and the 10,516 others,” Counsel submitted.

WAEC Opposition

Counsel for WAEC vehemently opposed the application and challenged the capacity of the Applicants.

On the issue of capacity, the case of AKOTO II & ORS VS. KAVEGE & ORS settled the position that persons suing in a representative capacity must establish that status and lead evidence of proof in the same.

Counsel said, the list of students does not suffice as proof of authority to institute an action on behalf of these supposed 10,522 students.

And that, the authority is settled that a representative capacity can be proven by way of a power of attorney.

“My Lord, the next ground of our opposition is that the Applicants do not meet the criteria for the grant of an order of mandamus,” Counsel stated.

Counsel said the list of the grounds that must be satisfied for the grant of an order of mandamus include: “The Applicant must show that there was a duty imposed by statute on the Respondent to perform an act, the duty was of a public nature, and that there was a right in the Applicant to enforce the performance of the duty.”

Counsel again said, it further published a notice in the Daily Graphic inviting students who had been allegedly involved in examination malpractice to log onto their website for further details.

“This investigation is an administrative process which is ongoing and takes a bit of time due to the large volumes of students allegedly involved.

“In this matter, investigations and the hearing are pending and hearing do not take a one-dimensional approach, especially when it comes to administrative bodies.

“WAEC has every intention of informing the specific students of specific infractions and hearing them on it before coming to a conclusion and determination of the matter,” Counsel submitted.

Currently, Counsel said, “no results have been cancelled, and WAEC’s invitation for the Applicants in this matter to attend a meeting was not accepted by the Applicants.”

“It has been expressly stated in the rules that where students are alleged to be involved in exam malpractice, those subjects would be withheld.

“We submit that the terms malpractice can be subsumed under examination irregularity and are not different or mutually exclusive.

“We conclude by saying that there is no breach of natural justice, hearing for the affected students is pending, and the integrity of WAEC as a West African Examination body had to be upheld and standards maintained,” Counsel for WAEC argued.

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In a statement, the exam body noted that, with the approval of the Ghana Examinations Committee during its 37th meeting, the results were withheld. However, investigations have since commenced and are now in their final phase.

The statement, signed by Head of Public Affairs John Kapi, noted that the scrutiny of the affected scripts has been completed. The concerned candidates have been invited to engage with selected WAEC officials.

“These meetings, which require candidates to be accompanied by their parents or guardians, are aimed at affording them a fair hearing before final decisions are made on their cases,” the statement read.

“During the meetings, candidates will be given an opportunity to respond to the allegations against them and provide written statements in the presence of their guardians.”

WAEC has assured that these interactions are being conducted transparently and fairly, dismissing claims by some parents that candidates are being coerced or intimidated into writing statements.

All affected candidates and their guardians have therefore been asked to cooperate with the ongoing process to ensure a swift resolution of the matter.

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Read the full statement below:

The withheld results have affected over 2,000 students, mostly from T.I. Ahmadiyya Senior High School, leaving them unable to proceed with university admissions.

Parents revealed that WAEC had sent messages instructing the students to report to the regional office to verify allegations of malpractice during the exams.

However, upon arriving at the office as early as 8 a.m., they were met with no response from officials, sparking frustration and demands for immediate action.

According to reports, the parents expressed concern that the delay is jeopardizing their children’s academic futures and called on WAEC to expedite the resolution of the issue.

They urged the council to release the final results promptly to prevent further disruptions in the students’ education pathways.

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This marks a significant shift from the previous system, where candidates had to wait for the next private exam cycle.

Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on Tuesday, December 31, the Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, John Kapi, explained that the new programme, referred to as WASSCE PC1, provides a faster route for students to improve their grades.

“Students who access their results now and realize they need to resit one or two papers have until 8th January to register online through our website or at WAEC-accredited internet cafés. The exams will take place from 24th January to 15th February 2025,” Mr Kapi stated.

To aid candidates in their preparations, WAEC plans to expedite the release of chief examiners’ reports. These reports will provide detailed feedback on where students may have gone wrong and how they can better approach their studies and the examination process.

“We’ve advertised this programme widely through banners, our website, and our results checker platform to ensure that both students and parents are aware,” Mr Kapi added.

Students whose results have been cancelled are also eligible to sit the WASSCE PC1 exams, provided they have not been banned for some years for malpractice.

For now, the exams will be conducted in regional capitals due to the limited number of candidates. Prospective participants are urged to complete their registration by the 8th of January to take advantage of this opportunity.

WAEC has expressed optimism that this initiative will allow candidates to quickly improve their grades and qualify for the next cycle of admissions, avoiding a year-long delay in their academic progress.

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The move according to WAEC forms part of the investigation process to quickly ensure the withheld results are released.

The Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, John Kapi disclosed this on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem following the release of the results on Monday, December 30, 2024.

In a statement, WAEC revealed that the entire results of 483 candidates have been cancelled for possession of mobile phones in the examination halls.

Also, the subject results of 781 and the entire Results of 209 candidates have been withheld for various suspected offences.

The candidates have been invited to WAEC’s offices to answer questions about alleged irregularities detected during the exams while some subject results of candidates from 319 schools have been withheld for alleged collusion.

Mr Kapi explained the Council is withholding the results of some subjects for these candidates until the investigations are complete.

“For the withheld results, our examiners identified instances of collusion and sharing of information during the marking process.

“These cases require further investigation and hearings with the affected candidates before any decisions are made,” Mr Kapi stated.

To expediate the process, he said there are plans to recall WAEC staff by January 3, 2025.

“The next line of action will depend on the merit of the case. If the evidence is not conclusive, we will release the results for the candidates,” he noted.

He further added that in the case of cancellation of results, the approval would have to come from relevant committees at WAEC after thorough investigations establish the evidence of malpractice.

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In a statement, the Council assured it will make available login details to heads of school to enable them access the results of their candidates.

“The results have been hosted online and candidates who so desire may access their results at the Council’s website www.waecgh.org,” the statement read in parts.

The Council has cautioned all its stakeholders to be wary of fraudsters who
promise to upgrade results for a fee.

“Candidates are to note that WAEC results are secured and can be authenticated using its results verification system. The WAEC QR  code can be downloaded and used to verify results,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, following the completion of investigations into some of the cases of irregularity reported, the subject results of 4,108 candidates have been cancelled for bringing foreign material like prepared notes, text books, and printed material into the
examination halls.

Also, the entire results of 483 candidates have been cancelled for possession of mobile
phones in the examination halls while the subject results of 781 and the entire Results of 209 candidates have been withheld for various suspected offences.

“Yet still, some subject results of candidates from 319 schools have been withheld for’
alleged collusion. These cases are still under investigation,” WAEC noted.

The release on Monday, December 30, 2024, follows weeks of delay over debts owed by the government which WAEC said was derailing its operations.

As of December 26, the government had released GH₵85 million to offset part of the GH¢118 million owed to the Council.

A total number of 460,611 candidates made up of 212,954 males and 247,657  females from 1003 schools entered for the examination.

This figure is 2.66% higher  than the 2023 entry figure of 448,674. A total number of 4,609 (1.0%) were absent  from the examination.

Read the full statement below:

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This development follows a public exchange between the Ministry and WAEC, during which the Ministry urged WAEC’s Public Relations Officer (PRO) to verify facts internally before making statements that could mislead the public or undermine the Ministry’s efforts.

During a visit to WAEC’s offices on Tuesday, December 24, Minister of Education Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum assured journalists that the results would be released by December 29.

He indicated that WAEC was finalizing the marking process to ensure timely publication.

However, WAEC disputed the Minister’s claims, particularly regarding the release of an additional GHS25 million for operational activities.

The Council had initially expressed uncertainty about meeting the December 29 timeline due to financial constraints.

In a clarification issued on Thursday, December 26, the Ministry disclosed that WAEC had acknowledged, in a letter dated December 20, 2024, receiving GHS25 million.

The Ministry further stated that WAEC had requested an additional GHS35 million to expedite the results processing, which the Ministry subsequently provided.

In a statement issued on Friday, December 27, WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, confirmed that the Council had received a cheque for GHS35 million on December 25, 2024.

He explained that, the funds would be used to complete the scanning of objective answer sheets and finalize the results processing for the 2024 WASSCE candidates.

He added that WAEC was working tirelessly to ensure the results are released by the end of the month.

Meanwhile, Mr. Kapi appealed to the Ministry to release the outstanding balance to enable WAEC to settle payments to supervisors, invigilators, script checkers, and suppliers of examination materials, as well as meet other financial commitments.

“The Council wishes all its stakeholders the best of the season and reaffirms its commitment to fulfilling its mandate despite the challenges,” he concluded.

In a statement dated December 27, WAEC revealed that the funds, received on December 25, would facilitate the scanning of objective answer cards and expedite the completion of results processing.

The Council assured stakeholders that it is working diligently to release the results by the end of the month.

However, it appealed to the Ministry to settle outstanding balances to enable payment of supervisors, invigilators, script checkers, and suppliers of examination materials.

WAEC also extended its best wishes to stakeholders for the season and reiterated its commitment to delivering on its mandate despite financial challenges.

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This comes after WAEC dismissed claims by the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, that the 2024 WASSCE results would be released by December 29, following the disbursement of GHS 25 million to the Council.

Speaking after a visit to WAEC’s offices on Tuesday, Dr. Adutwum announced that WAEC was finalizing the marking process and assured that results would be ready by December 29.

However, WAEC’s Head of Public Relations, John Kapi, refuted the claim, stating that no additional funds beyond the GHS 25 million received on December 18 had been disbursed, contrary to the Minister’s remarks.

Mr. Kapi noted that, WAEC had requested an additional GHS 35 million from the Ministry to fix broken-down scanners, complete the scanning of objective test answer cards, and process results, but the funds were yet to be received.

In response, the Ministry issued a statement on Thursday, December 26, clarifying that WAEC had formally acknowledged receipt of the GHS 25 million payment in a letter dated December 20, 2024.

The Ministry also stated that it had since released the requested GHS 35 million to facilitate the processing of the WASSCE results.

“It is surprising to note that the WAEC PRO has publicly denied the receipt of the GHS 25 million payment, despite official documentation confirming its acknowledgement,” the Ministry said in its statement.

The Ministry emphasized that public statements by WAEC officials should be grounded in verified information to avoid miscommunication or casting aspersions on the Ministry’s commitments.

The Ministry reiterated that it has disbursed a total of GHS 167,976,815 to WAEC from July 2024 to date, fulfilling its financial obligations for the 2024 WASSCE.

It assured the public that efforts are ongoing to ensure the timely release of the examination results and urged calm as the process concludes.

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This decision allows WAEC additional time to complete the marking process while optimizing its financial resources.

Dr. Adutwum’s announcement is part of the government’s broader efforts to ensure seamless operations in the education sector.

To alleviate financial constraints, the Ministry of Education recently released an additional GH₵25 million to WAEC to support its operations and enhance efficiency.

Dr. Adutwum noted that WAEC has completed 50% of the objective marking and assured the public that results would be released as scheduled.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, December 24, the Minister expressed confidence in the measures taken to uphold the integrity of the examination process.

He hinted at a provisional release date of December 28 or 29, 2024, with final results expected by the end of January.

“I came to apprise myself of developments and confirm that they are working through the holidays to release the results on or before the 29th of this month. I observed the workers diligently marking, with nearly 50% of the objectives already completed,” Dr. Adutwum stated.

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This financial injection is aimed at addressing the challenges WAEC has been facing and expediting the release of the WASSCE results.

Kwasi Kwarteng, the Ministry of Education’s spokesperson, confirmed the release of the funds in a statement issued on Monday, December 23, 2024.

He assured the public that WAEC is committed to releasing the results soon.

The additional funding is expected to ease the financial pressure on WAEC and help accelerate the completion of the marking process, offering relief to students, parents, and educational institutions who have been anxiously awaiting the results.

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