The Headmistress of Ahantaman Girls Senior High School, Mrs. Ernestina Kankam, has attributed the disappointing performance of many students in the 2025 WASSCE to widespread examination malpractice and a declining commitment to academic diligence.
Reacting to the national results, Mrs. Kankam said the outcome was not surprising, describing it as “a true reflection of the students’ capabilities.”
According to her, cases of students buying questions, sneaking answers into examination halls, and relying on leaked materials have become increasingly common. She revealed that the school frequently confiscates mobile phones from candidates, only to discover exam questions or solved answers stored on them.
“Sometimes when we seize their phones and check, we see some of these questions on them. With me, if I find a phone on you, I report you to WAEC, and all your results will be cancelled,” she warned.
Mrs. Kankam emphasised that Ahantaman Girls SHS has strict security measures during examinations, making it nearly impossible for students to smuggle unauthorized materials undetected.
“When some are caught, we ask them to remove their passcodes, and we go through the phones. Sometimes the questions are exact; other times, they are solved versions of expected topics,” she said.
She expressed concern that many students rely heavily on “apo” (leaked questions), adding that some even write answers on their thighs, chests and other concealed areas.
“The problem is that today’s students do not like learning, and the situation is made worse by the ‘apo’ culture. In some cases, schools even collude to assist students during the exams,” she lamented.
Mrs. Kankam urged students to return to disciplined study habits, stressing that thorough preparation and genuine effort remain the most reliable path to academic success.
“We advise them to study and do what they can according to their ability. It is far better than cheating,” she concluded.
