WAEC Withholds Over 215,000 Results Due to Exam Malpractices

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has released a troubling report on examination malpractices for the 2024 academic year. According to the report, a staggering 215,267 candidates’ results have been withheld, representing 11.62% of the total number of students who sat for the examination. This alarming statistic indicates that approximately 12 out of every 100 candidates were involved in some form of examination malpractice.

Amos Dangut, WAEC’s Head of Nigeria Office (HNO), revealed that the results are being withheld in connection with various reported cases of examination malpractice. He noted that while this figure is concerning, it represents a 4.37% decrease from the 16.29% recorded in the WASSCE for School Candidates in 2023. Dangut highlighted ongoing challenges, stating, “The increasing use of cell phones in the examination hall, in spite of the existing ban, and organised cheating in some schools, are other nagging issues.”

Massive Financial Loss: Candidates Forfeit Over ₦5.8 Billion

The financial implications of these examination malpractices are severe. With the exam fee set at ₦27,000 per candidate, the total cost for the 215,267 withheld results amounts to a staggering ₦5.812 billion. This figure only accounts for the examination fees and does not include additional expenses incurred by candidates for logistics and preparation.

WAEC has emphasized its commitment to maintaining the integrity of its examinations. Dangut stated, “The WAEC will continue to sanction all cases of examination malpractice as schools, supervisors, teachers and candidates perpetrating this evil are not helping the educational system.” He further explained that all cases are currently under investigation, and reports will be presented to the appropriate committee of the Council for consideration and final decisions. WAEC has called for collective action to address this issue, with Dangut asserting, “All hands must, therefore, be on deck to sanitise the system.”.

Serious Issue: Examination Malpractices Threaten Nigeria’s Educational Integrity

Examination malpractice is increasingly becoming a serious threat to the integrity of Nigeria’s educational system. According to Dr. Abidemi Akintoye, a renowned educationist, this issue is a “wake-up call for us as a nation.” He emphasized that examination malpractices not only undermine the credibility of the educational system but also jeopardize the future of the youth. “We must take drastic measures to prevent this scourge from spreading further,” he warned.

The factors contributing to this growing menace are varied and complex. Some students, under intense pressure to succeed, resort to cheating as a means to an end. Others might be inadequately prepared due to lack of resources or poor academic support. Regardless of the reasons, the consequences are far-reaching and severe. Students found guilty of cheating often face repercussions such as disqualification from further education or employment opportunities, tarnishing their future prospects

WAEC’s Decisive Action Against Examination Malpractices

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has recognized the gravity of examination malpractices and has committed to taking stringent actions to curb the trend. The WAEC has announced plans to collaborate with schools, governments, and other stakeholders to effectively identify and prevent incidents of malpractice. Part of their strategy includes implementing stricter security measures during examinations to ensure the integrity of the process.

In addition to tightening exam security, WAEC aims to launch comprehensive education and awareness campaigns to highlight the dangers of examination malpractices. This initiative seeks to foster a culture of academic honesty and integrity among students from a young age. The recent withholding of 215,267 results, coupled with the financial cost of over ₦5.812 billion, underscores the urgency of addressing this issue head-on.

The Way Forward: Investing in Quality Education and Ethical Values

Addressing the issue of examination malpractices requires a multi-faceted approach. Experts argue that Nigeria must significantly increase investment in its educational sector to ensure the delivery of quality education. Beyond financial investments, there is a critical need to promote ethical values within the educational system. This includes instilling a sense of academic integrity in students and creating an environment where honesty is valued over success at any cost.

Improving exam security through the use of technology is another recommended step. Automated systems can help reduce the incidence of malpractice by ensuring stricter monitoring and oversight. Additionally, imposing strict penalties on those caught engaging in examination malpractice can serve as a deterrent to others. Raising public awareness about the long-term consequences of cheating and involving communities in the fight against examination malpractice are also essential.

By taking these measures, Nigeria can work towards ensuring that its educational system produces not only knowledgeable individuals but also competent and honest citizens who will contribute positively to the nation’s progress and development.