The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has said the significant delay in administering the 2025 English Language paper on Wednesday was a direct result of intensified efforts to combat examination malpractice, particularly the leaking of question papers.
This explanation comes after widespread outrage ignited by social media footage and images.
These visuals showed students taking the exam as late as 10 PM, forced to rely on torchlights and lanterns due to power outages.
This alarming situation raised serious concerns about examination planning and student welfare across the nation.
In a statement released on Thursday, WAEC acknowledged the disruption faced by candidates.
The English Language Paper 2, initially scheduled for May 28, was ultimately held several hours late in numerous examination centers nationwide.
Moyosola Adesina, WAEC’s Acting Head of Public Affairs, emphasized that the body’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the examination was the primary reason for the delay.
She said: “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.
“While we successfully achieved our objective, it inadvertently impacted the timeliness and seamless conduct of the examination.”
The examination body also cited other compounding factors, including logistical challenges, security concerns, and sociocultural dynamics, which disrupted operations in certain areas.
WAEC said it is working with security agencies to refine its processes and boost operational efficiency in upcoming exams, aiming to prevent similar incidents.
She said: “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.”
WAEC extended apologies to students, schools, and parents for the disruption’s impact and thanked stakeholders for their understanding amidst the “challenging period”.
The body reiterated its commitment to upholding examination integrity and promoting academic excellence regionally.
The statement added: “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.”
The 2025 WASSCE for school candidates started on April 24 and will run until June 20.
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