In 2024, the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results for over 27,000 students were withheld in Sierra Leone, sparking widespread concern.

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), which oversees the WASSCE, reported that the results were held back due to suspicions of exam malpractice. WAEC officials indicated that they detected irregularities in several exam centers, including the use of unauthorized materials.

This move has left many students and their families in limbo, as the WASSCE is a crucial examination that determines entry into tertiary institutions and employment opportunities. The affected students expressed frustration, fearing the long-term impact this may have on their educational and professional futures.
Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Conrad Sackey in his announcement of the 2024 WASSCE results disclosed that, this year’s results analysis shows a 19.7% pass rate in English Language and a 46% pass rate in Mathematics.

He furthered that the results of 27,097 candidates from a total of 146,179 students across 816 schools have been withheld due to concerns over examination malpractice nationwide.

WAEC reassured the public that a thorough investigation was underway and that results would be released once the inquiry is complete. The organization reiterated its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the examination process.

The government of Sierra Leone also pledged support to ensure a fair resolution and urged students to remain calm as the situation unfolds. This marks another chapter in the ongoing efforts to combat cheating in national exams.