The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) is sounding the alarm over what it calls an escalating threat to examination integrity — the unchecked misuse of social media platforms.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Friday, June 13, WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, highlighted how mobile technology is making it harder to maintain the credibility of public examinations.
“Social media has created a bigger problem than we anticipated,” Kapi said.
“Of course, there are good sides to it, but people are exploiting it on the negative side. With the advent of mobile phones, WhatsApp, Telegram, and others, it’s become difficult to curb examination malpractice.”
WAEC has long battled leaks and cheating during major exams, but the rise of encrypted messaging platforms has made monitoring and prevention significantly more complex.
Despite these challenges, Kapi gave updates on preparations for the upcoming Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), noting that the government had paid over half of the required funds for the exams.
“As we speak, the government has paid a little above 50% of the amount we need for the BECE,” he explained.
“Assurances have been made, and if all of them are fulfilled, there will be no hitches, and the results will be released appropriately for candidates to move on to their next stage.”
WAEC is urging the public, schools, and candidates to play their part in protecting the sanctity of the examination process, even as the digital age introduces new obstacles.
