The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has received an additional GH¢35 million from Ghana’s Ministry of Education to aid the processing of the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results for school candidates. This brings the total funds released so far to GH¢60 million, out of the GH¢118 million owed to WAEC.
WAEC’s Confirmation and Progress
In a statement signed by John Kapi, the Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, the council confirmed receiving the funds on December 25, 2024. The money will enable WAEC to complete the scanning of objective answer cards and finalize the results processing.
“WAEC is working round the clock to ensure the results are released by the end of the month,” the statement read.
However, the council has appealed to the Ministry of Education to release the outstanding balance to settle payments for supervisors, invigilators, script checkers, suppliers of examination materials, and other financial obligations. 
Challenges in the Post-Examination Process
Earlier in December, WAEC highlighted challenges with the breakdown of scanners used for processing the objective cards, citing insufficient funds to maintain or repair them. The delay in this essential step has impacted the overall timeline for releasing the results.
Mr. Kapi explained:
“Currently, we actually have a number of scanners, but due to lack of funds, we have not been able to service them as they break down. That’s what has led to the current situation.”
WASSCE 2024: Key Facts
- The 2024 WASSCE began on August 5, 2024, and ended on September 20, 2024.
- Marking of essays and practical components started on November 7 and concluded on November 29, 2024.
- A total of 460,611 candidates participated in the examination.
- Scanning of objective cards, initially scheduled for completion by November 30, 2024, is still ongoing.
WAEC’s Assurance to Stakeholders
WAEC has assured examination officials and suppliers that payments will be made as soon as the Ministry releases the outstanding funds. The council has also advised the public to disregard unofficial information circulating on social media about the results release date.
“The results will be released as soon as the challenges being experienced with the post-examination activities are resolved,” WAEC stated in an update.
Conclusion
While the recent disbursement from the Ministry of Education is a step forward, the financial shortfall continues to hinder WAEC’s operations. Resolving these challenges is crucial for releasing the results on time and maintaining the credibility of the examination process.
