WASSCE invigilators fined, others remanded – WAEC

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has issued a stern warning that all invigilators involved in malpractice during the recently concluded West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will face legal consequences.

The exam, which began on Monday, August 5, 2024, with Visual Arts project work and ended on Friday, September 20, 2024, was marred by various incidents of cheating. WAEC has confirmed breaches, including invigilators distributing answers to candidates, candidates and teachers smuggling mobile phones into exam halls, and using projectors and boards to display answers for students.

John Kapi, Head of Public Relations at WAEC, revealed that some invigilators have already been fined, while others await trial. Investigations are still ongoing, and those found guilty will be held accountable.

Kapi explained, “When we confiscate a mobile phone, it’s a clear violation, and the entire result is canceled. In cases where answers were projected on the board, we intervened, but candidates were allowed to complete their exams before investigations. For those who fled, we instructed school heads to ensure they are produced.”

He further stated that invigilators caught in the act were handed over to the police. “Some cases have been settled with fines, while others are still in court. Several teachers were even remanded. As for the candidates, they are permitted to finish their exams, and investigations follow afterward,” Kapi added.

WAEC also expressed appreciation to the stakeholders who alerted them to attempts by some institutions to cheat during the exams. The Council reiterated its commitment to maintaining the integrity of its exams, despite these challenges.