The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has opened up about why the 2025 English Language exam was delayed on Wednesday, saying it was all in a bid to stop question paper leaks and exam malpractice.
The paper, originally scheduled for the morning of May 28, did not start on time in many centres across the country.
Some students ended up writing the exam into the night, with viral videos on social media showing candidates using torch lights and lanterns in dark classrooms due to power outages. The situation sparked public anger.
In a statement released on Thursday, WAEC admitted things did not go as planned and said it regrets the stress caused to students, schools, and parents.
Moyosola Adesina, Acting Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, explained that the Council’s efforts to protect the exam’s credibility were largely behind the delay.
“While maintaining the integrity and security of our examination, we faced considerable challenges primarily due to our major aim of preventing leakage of any paper,” Adesina said.
“While we successfully achieved our objective, it inadvertently impacted the timeliness and seamless conduct of the examination.”
Aside from exam security, WAEC also mentioned other hurdles like transport issues, safety concerns, and local community dynamics that disrupted operations in some areas.
“Despite our best efforts, we encountered logistical hurdles, security concerns and sociocultural factors that negatively influenced our operations. In order to forestall future occurrences of this nature, the council is currently collaborating with security agencies,” the statement added.
WAEC assured the public that it is taking steps to prevent a repeat of the incident. The Council said it is already working with security agencies to make things smoother for future exams.
“We recognise the importance of timely conduct of examinations and the impact of this decision on the candidates, their schools and parents, and we sincerely apologise for any inconveniences caused,” Adesina added.
The 2025 WASSCE began on 24 April and will run until 20 June.
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