By DAYO ADESULU
The West African Senior School Certificate Examination for School Candidates (WASSCE) 2025 has officially begun, kicking off in April 2025. The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the examination process, emphasizing a zero-tolerance stance on examination malpractice.
Collaboration Needed to Combat Malpractice
In a press release issued by WAEC, the organization called upon stakeholders and the Nigerian public to join forces in combating fraudulent activities that threaten to undermine the efforts of diligent students. WAEC’s management reiterated the importance of collective vigilance and cooperation to protect the integrity of the examination process.
Strict Guidelines and Technological Measures in Place
WAEC has established stringent guidelines for candidates participating in the WASSCE 2025:
1. Punctuality is Key: Candidates must be seated in the examination hall before the start of each paper. Supervisors have been instructed to report any latecomers.
2. Technological Surveillance: WAEC has implemented advanced technological applications aimed at identifying and penalizing candidates who engage with rogue websites or use unauthorized materials during the exams. Any candidate found sharing or receiving exam questions via social media will have their results withheld pending investigation. If deemed guilty, their results will be canceled, and the matter may be referred to the Nigeria Police Force for further action.
Innovative Systems to Ensure Fairness
To further enhance the examination process, WAEC continues to utilize the Candidates Identity Verification, Attendance, Malpractice, and Post Examinations Management System (CIVAMPEMS). This system is designed to:
– Verify candidates’ identities to prevent impersonation.
– Capture attendance at examination centers.
– Report any acts of malpractice occurring during the examination.
A Call to Action Against Educational Malpractice
WAEC has highlighted that examination malpractice poses a significant threat to the quality of education and national development. The organization views this issue as a pervasive challenge that necessitates a comprehensive approach for effective resolution. WAEC’s management stressed the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to eradicate this issue from the education sector.
Commitment to Excellence
As a world-class examining body, WAEC remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding educational integrity. The organization will spare no effort in ensuring that the standards of educational assessment are maintained, providing a fair and equitable examination experience for all candidates.
Conclusion
With the WASSCE 2025 underway, WAEC’s robust measures and collaborative approach aim to foster an environment of honesty and integrity, ultimately shaping a brighter future for education in West Africa.
