WAEC Declares War On Exam Fraud, Warns Schools And Supervisors Over Extortion

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has expressed concern over reported cases of extortion involving some schools and examination supervisors during the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The council described the alleged practice as illegal, unethical, and capable of undermining the credibility of the examination process.

In a statement issued on Monday, WAEC said it had received complaints that some candidates were being made to pay unauthorized fees under various pretexts.

According to the council, the payments reportedly cover items such as transportation of examination materials, welfare contributions, and so-called “cooperation” fees.

WAEC also raised concern over reports that some schools were demanding payment from candidates for KAPEK calculators already supplied free of charge by the council.

The examination body strongly condemned the practice, warning that it would not tolerate any form of exploitation of candidates.

“WAEC has noted cases where schools demand payment for KAPEK calculators already provided by the Council at no cost to candidates. WAEC condemns these practices as illegal, unethical and a direct threat to the integrity of the WASSCE,” the statement read.

The council directed all schools, supervisors, and other officials involved in the examination process to desist from any form of illegal collection from candidates.

It warned that any individual or institution found culpable would face strict sanctions in line with its regulations and applicable laws.

Such penalties, according to WAEC, may include derecognition of schools, blacklisting of officials, prosecution, and referral to relevant disciplinary authorities.

WAEC further urged parents, candidates, and stakeholders to report any cases of extortion or misconduct during the examination period, stressing the need to protect the integrity of the WASSCE.

The council maintained that candidates should not be subjected to any additional financial burden beyond approved examination requirements.

The warning comes after WAEC earlier acknowledged operational and security challenges affecting the ongoing examination in parts of the country.

It disclosed that some examination papers were delayed due to logistical constraints, insecurity, and other disruptions.

WAEC also confirmed the death of three of its staff members in a road accident while conveying sensitive examination materials.

“Three of our dedicated personnel who were transporting sensitive examination materials interstate lost their lives in the tragic crash,” the council said.

The council described the incident as a painful loss and extended condolences to the families of the deceased.

It further noted that insecurity, including protests linked to the abduction of schoolchildren in some areas, affected the timely distribution of examination materials.

Despite these challenges, WAEC said emergency measures were activated to ensure that affected candidates were able to sit for their examinations.

The council reiterated its commitment to the smooth conduct of the WASSCE and called for cooperation from all stakeholders to avoid actions that could compromise the examination process or place undue pressure on candidates.