The 74th Annual Council Meeting of the West African Examinations Council has commenced in Accra, Ghana, with a focus on reinforcing the credibility of assessments. The event marks a significant return for Ghana as host, having last held the meeting in person in 2016.
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu welcomed the delegation led by the newly elected Chairman of Council, Professor Thomas B. R. Yormah. Iddrisu emphasized the government's commitment to supporting WAEC's mandate, particularly in addressing the persistent deficit in Mathematics and Science education. He reminded the council of the high stakes involved in examinations, noting that any disruption affects the lives and careers of young people.
"That is why we must appreciate that we owe the learners a standard of care and a standard of duty, and give them an environment in which they can give off their best," Iddrisu stated.
Building on the theme of integrity, Deputy Minister of Education Dr. Clement Abas Apaak urged the council to be more intentional about integrating modern technology. He specifically called for the deployment of Artificial Intelligence to curb examination malpractices.
"We hope that WAEC will be more deliberate in integrating technology in the conduct of WASSCE and leverage AI to curb examination malpractices," Dr. Apaak remarked.
He noted that the council has continued to deploy more technology to sharpen existing monitoring mechanisms and strengthen its investigative systems across the sub region.
In his response, Professor Yormah congratulated the Minister on his appointment and expressed confidence in his leadership. He explained that the visit was in line with WAEC's longstanding practice for newly appointed chairpersons to engage Ministers of Education.
"My courtesy visit to you today is intended to provide an opportunity for me to present myself and the organisation I have accepted to chair for three years," Yormah stated.
He also expressed appreciation to the Government of Ghana for its longstanding support since the council's establishment in 1952. The meeting also featured the conferment of the 35th Distinguished Friends of Council Award on Professor Afiakwa Asomaning for his contributions to science education. Additionally, the three best female Ghanaian candidates for the WASSCE for School Candidates were honoured. Ghana has pledged to honour all outstanding contributions towards the hosting of the annual meeting.
