By Leo Nelson
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has confirmed a positive start to the ongoing Basic Education Certificate Examination across the country.
The Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, stated that the initial phase of the national exercise proceeded without significant disruption. Regional representatives reported that the first day of the examination concluded on a strong note across all districts.
Official monitors observed that candidates adhered to all established protocols during the opening sessions. Security personnel maintained a visible presence at various designated centres to ensure order and safety.
The Council deployed trained officers alongside undercover agents to consistently patrol examination grounds. Kapi indicated that the strong security presence helped prevent potential breaches and maintained a calm environment for students.
Police and intelligence officers worked jointly to provide a robust security shield for all candidates. He expressed full confidence in the integrity of the second day of the examination. All monitoring teams remained on high alert, tracking developments from the field in real time.
On the first day of the examination, authorities arrested seven individuals on the first day for various infractions during the examination period. Five individuals were detained for attempting to use mobile phones within restricted examination areas.
Officers also apprehended two teachers for assisting candidates with unauthorised materials during the process. One educator was found attempting to duplicate responses, while the other carried prepared scripts toward an examination hall.
“We picked up seven people yesterday who were involved in some form of infractions. Five of them were mobile phone infractions and then two of them were teachers.”
WAEC’s firm commitment to upholding the highest standards of academic integrity throughout the examination period. He assured that anyone found violating the rules would face the full force of the law.
Regarding reports of candidate fatalities in the Upper West Region, he said that management had notified local authorities and would lead efforts to support affected families during this difficult period.
District directorates planned to collaborate with regional offices to visit bereaved households. These visits were intended to offer condolences and support to grieving families in Wa.
The WAEC Head of Public Affairs clarified that the management of local incidents often falls under the jurisdiction of the Government of Ghana.
The Council pledged continued engagement with relevant stakeholders to address the tragic situation. He also addressed concerns regarding candidates with special needs at a centre in the Central Region.
Kapi explained that tailored materials are provided for students with identified disabilities prior to the examination. Records indicated that schools are required to submit detailed data on visually or hearing-impaired students during registration. This enables the provision of large-print materials or sign language interpretation where necessary.
Kapi noted that any challenges involving low-vision candidates often arise from the absence of prior notification from schools. He further emphasised that the Council accommodates every candidate when accurate information is provided.
“There is nobody who would tell us that they have any difficulty and then we do not provide for them. Everybody is provided for adequately.” He suggested the temporary use of magnifying tools to support candidates experiencing reading difficulties.
The WAEC PRO also reassured parents and stakeholders that the examination system remains fair, inclusive, and well-resourced. John Kapi maintained that the Council has the capacity to support every candidate effectively.
According him, Public teachers and supervisors received updated instructions to report any logistical challenges directly to the head office without delay. He said the Council aimed to ensure an equal playing field for all candidates across all ten regions.
Monitoring teams continued their inspections to confirm that all centres had adequate stationery and examination materials. The logistical chain functioned efficiently, preventing delays in the distribution of question papers.
Kapi assured the public that WAEC remained vigilant against systemic failures and examination leakages. He also thanked the public for providing information that led to the arrest of the seven suspects. This cooperation, he noted, helps safeguard the credibility of certificates awarded to successful candidates.
Kapi encouraged candidates to remain focused and avoid any temptation to engage in malpractice. He expressed confidence that the current security measures would deter further attempts at cheating.
On discussing about a report from the Assin Fosu, Kapi announced that the area has prompted a review of registration data for candidates with special needs.
The Council reiterated its commitment to ensuring no child is disadvantaged due to physical limitations. The administration also planned to strengthen communication between district offices and the national headquarters.
This was intended to ensure that emerging issues are resolved within hours of being reported. He reaffirmed its commitment to delivering credible national assessments on behalf of the government.
All departments continued to work in coordination to ensure a smooth and peaceful examination period. Kapi added that field reports indicated a high level of preparedness among candidates. He expressed optimism for a successful conclusion of the exercise without further security incidents.