Falsified Results Undermine WAEC, Reject Malpractice – Veep

Accra: Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has raised concerns about the growing incidence of falsified results and forged certificates, which she stated undermines the mandate of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). She emphasized that if the situation is left unchecked, it could erode the credibility on which the entire examination system depends. According to Ghana News Agency, during the opening of WAEC's 74th Annual Council Meeting held in Accra, Professor Opoku-Agyemang called on stakeholders to ensure that students imbibe the values of integrity and honesty. She stressed the need to uphold the integrity of examinations, reject malpractice in all forms, and protect the value of the qualifications conferred by WAEC. The Vice President urged chiefs, school administrators, opinion leaders, parents, guardians, and students to collaborate in instilling the right values in children. The meeting brought together member countries, including The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sie rra Leone. WAEC, Africa's foremost examining board, was established in 1952 to conduct examinations and award certificates in English-speaking West African countries. The annual council meeting rotates among member states, with Ghana hosting this year's event. Professor Opoku-Agyemang highlighted that the rise in examination malpractice threatens WAEC's objectives, including maintaining educational standards. She stated that this challenge requires a collective response from institutions, communities, citizens, and especially students. The Vice President emphasized the importance of strict invigilation at all levels of examination administration, noting that anyone who aids cheating is contributing to future failure. She commended various governments for sustaining WAEC and assured that the Government of Ghana would continue to support the council to strengthen structures, improve operational efficiency, and promote sustainability. WAEC has been a pragmatic example of regional collaboration on the continent for over 70 years, making significant progress in maintaining educational standards through credible examinations. The Vice President noted that many distinguished citizens are products of WAEC's rigorous systems. She emphasized the need for WAEC to develop assessment tools that evaluate students' knowledge and encourage creativity and critical thinking. Future academic growth, regional mobility, and economic integration in the subregion largely depend on the quality of education provided today. The occasion also featured the presentation of certificates and cash prizes to the Council's International Excellence Award winners of the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for School Candidates. Three females from Ghana, Huda Suglo Suleman, Paula Adzo Elinam Sowu, and Matthea Aba Andoh, received top honors. The Vice President congratulated them, encouraging students to draw inspiration from their hard work and discipline. Professor Opoku-Agyemang charged council members to use the me eting to find innovative ways to improve standards in West Africa and foster regional cooperation.