The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has indicated that it may need to postpone the upcoming Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) due to financial constraints.
John Kapi, Director of Public Affairs at WAEC, stated that the council requires approximately GH₵90 million to conduct the exams.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Midday News on June 21, he explained, “The exam papers have been printed, but we lack funds for distribution and sending WAEC officials to monitor the exams. Until we receive the necessary funds, there is a possibility that the examination might be postponed.”
He further elaborated, “We have secured bond paper to print our question papers and completed all preliminary preparations. What remains is funding from the government to deploy our officers and conduct the examination.”
“In light of this situation, we are concerned that the exam may need to be postponed because there are currently no funds available for us to proceed,” he concluded.
He mentioned that the postponement would continue until the funds are disbursed, allowing the examination body to proceed with the exams.
Mr. Kapi noted that such delays in fund release are unusual for WAEC, stating, “Historically, WAEC has never postponed any exam due to financial constraints, but at present, it appears to be the only viable option.”
The Director of Public Affairs expressed frustration over the Ministry of Education’s failure to release funds for WAEC’s operations despite their efforts to secure the necessary resources.
Meanwhile, he advised students preparing for the upcoming BECE to remain focused on their studies.
A week ago, John Kapi, said, “For BECE, we still have an outstanding payment of ₵698,500, and then for the 2024 examination, we expect a total amount of ₵95,837,306 from the government.”
He noted that so far, the council has received ₵2,284,618, leaving an outstanding balance of ₵93,552,688 needed for the BECE.
He emphasised that the $2 million received is insufficient to facilitate the examination.
The Minority caucus on the Education Committee in parliament first raised the issues this week , calling for a payment schedule from the government.
Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, Ranking Member on the Education Committee, disclosed that he suggested to the Chairman of the Education Committee the convening of a meeting with the Minister of Finance, the Minister of Education, and the national officer for WAEC. The aim would be to establish a roadmap for the timely release of funds, thereby enabling WAEC to conduct the BECE and fulfill its financial obligations.
my Radio G-Live 
