By By: Alphanso G. Kalama
Some Comments from Citizens under WAEC Liberia Recent Post, announcing registration for private candidates or candidates who previously failed the WASSCE.
Monrovia, Liberia – The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) Liberia is at the center of controversy as it continues registration for the 2024 Second Series of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for Private Candidates. The registration period, which ends on November 20, 2024, comes as many students are still grappling with unresolved issues from the recently conducted 2024 national exams.
WAEC announced that candidates can register online and pay fees ranging from L$8,000 for one to five subjects to L$12,000 for six subjects and above. However, this initiative has drawn sharp criticism from parents and educators who are questioning the council’s priorities and transparency.
McDonald Socrates Kerl, a vocal critic, accused WAEC of prioritizing profits over educational integrity, stating, “It’s now more about raising money than examining students!” His sentiment resonates with many who are frustrated by WAEC’s handling of the recent exam results, which have been shrouded in confusion and inaccessibility.
Multiple Citizens are demanding clarity and accountability from WAEC, particularly in light of reports of online system errors that have prevented candidates from accessing their scores. Jerry Yearsiah described the situation as “criminal,” urging WAEC to release the results fully before pushing for new registrations. “Why should candidates pay again when their previous results remain uncertain?” he questioned.
Critics have raised concerns about the fairness of asking students to register for another round of exams while significant discrepancies, including unexplained grades marked with an “X,” remain unresolved from the last examination. Hecton V. Kaye stated, “You indicated an X letter on results of subjects that the students actually wrote, and you are yet to straighten those discrepancies.”
Moreover, the registration process has also been criticized for being exclusionary, with many pointing out that not all candidates have access to the technology required for online registration. Daniel D. Logan highlighted the plight of those without smartphones, asking, “How do private candidates get their receipt when they register?”
As the public outcry continues to grow, the Ministry of Education and WAEC are urged to address these pressing issues. The council’s recent actions, including its approach to private candidates, have raised significant concerns about the future of Liberia’s educational system. Critics warn that without immediate action and transparency, WAEC risks further alienating students and undermining the credibility of national examinations.
