Gov’t debt puts 2023 WASSCE and BECE at jeopardy – Minority warns

The Minority in Parliament has issued a stark warning, expressing concerns about the smooth conduct of the 2023 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). The potential risk arises from the government’s failure to settle all outstanding debts owed to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, the Minority Spokesperson on Education, highlighted the pressing issue while addressing journalists in Parliament. He stated that WAEC urgently requires over GH₵‎50 million to fulfill its financial obligations and ensure the seamless organization of the upcoming 2023 examinations.

One of the significant challenges facing WAEC is the government’s failure to release funds for compensating individuals who rendered their services during the 2022 WASSCE. This includes allowances owed to supervisors, invigilators, examiners, and other personnel involved in the examination process.

The situation has become critical as the current year’s examinations, including orals and practicals, are either underway or about to commence. Without the necessary funds to pay for last year’s services, WAEC is unable to fulfill its obligations to the personnel involved. Consequently, there is a concern that these dedicated teachers and professionals might be hesitant to provide their services again as supervisors and invigilators.

Comparing the situation to another member country, where WAEC’s budget is released promptly, the Minority Spokesperson questioned why Ghana couldn’t follow the same approach.

The gravity of the challenge faced by WAEC is evident. Without the necessary financial support of about GH₵‎50 million to clear previous year arrears, WAEC is unable to pay for essential services like printing scripts and booklets. This raises doubts about the smooth execution of the 2023 examinations.

In conclusion, the Minority in Parliament has called for urgent action to address the financial constraints faced by WAEC to ensure the successful and uninterrupted conduct of the upcoming WASSCE and BECE examinations. Failure to do so may jeopardize the entire examination process and disrupt the education of countless students.