The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has released an important update on the withheld results of some candidates who sat for the 2024 WASSCE for School Candidates. This follows investigations into various cases of examination malpractice recorded during the exams.
Why Were Some Results Withheld?
WAEC reported several irregularities, including:
- Bringing foreign materials into the examination hall.
- Snapping and posting questions on social media.
- Sharing photocopied responses among candidates.
- Some invigilators assisting candidates.
- Possession of mobile phones in the exam hall.
The Council took strict action based on these findings. According to the official statement:
“Following completion of investigations into these malpractice cases, the Council, upon approval by the Ghana Examinations Committee, took the following actions:”
These actions include:
1. Cancellation of subject results for 4,108 candidates.
2. Cancellation of entire results for 483 candidates.
3. Withholding of subject results for 781 candidates.
4. Withholding of entire results for 209 candidates.
5. Withholding of subject results from 319 schools due to suspected collusion.
How WAEC Handles Withheld Results
WAEC follows a structured process when dealing with withheld results. This includes:
1. Writing to the affected schools and scrutinizing the scripts.
2. Organizing hearings where affected candidates can defend themselves.
3. Allowing candidates to write statements in response to allegations.
WAEC reassures the public that:
“The Council does not take decisions arbitrarily. There are relevant committees that look into the merits of the matters raised and advise accordingly.”
Additionally, some candidates whose results were withheld challenged WAEC in court. While the court ruled in favor of releasing their results, WAEC has filed for a stay of execution pending appeal, set for February 20, 2025.
Final Decision on Withheld Results
WAEC has assured stakeholders that investigations will be completed soon, with final decisions on all cases expected by February 28, 2025. The Council remains committed to ensuring fairness and upholding the credibility of the exams.
The Council also made an appeal:
“Parents, guardians, the media, and all stakeholders should speak out boldly against this menace in order to give our examination the credibility it deserves.”
This statement serves as a call to action to fight against exam malpractice and maintain the integrity of the WASSCE.
WAEC’s latest update highlights the importance of integrity in examinations. The Council is working to resolve all cases fairly while ensuring that only deserving candidates receive their certificates.
Parents, guardians, and candidates are encouraged to cooperate with WAEC as they finalize investigations and release results.
