KEY POINTS

• WAEC condemns illegal fees imposed on candidates

• Schools charging for free calculators under scrutiny

• Offenders risk blacklisting, prosecution, and derecognition

The West African Examinations Council, WAEC, has issued a strong warning to schools, supervisors, and invigilators involved in extorting candidates sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination, WASSCE, declaring such practices illegal and harmful to the credibility of its examinations.

The examination body said it had received numerous reports indicating that some schools and examination officials were demanding money from candidates under various unofficial arrangements, despite clear regulations prohibiting such actions.

In a statement issued by WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adesina, the Council expressed concern over what it described as alarming cases of extortion taking place during the ongoing examinations.

According to WAEC, some supervisors and schools have been collecting money from candidates under different pretexts, including transportation of examination scripts, welfare packages, and so-called “cooperation fees.”

The Council said these charges are unauthorised and violate established examination guidelines.

Free Calculators Being Sold to Candidates

WAEC also raised concerns over reports that some schools were demanding payment from candidates for KAPEK calculators that had already been supplied free of charge by the examination body.

The Council described the practice as unacceptable, noting that students should not be compelled to pay for materials that have already been provided at no cost.

Officials stated that such actions place unnecessary financial burdens on candidates and their families while undermining confidence in the examination process.

As part of efforts to stop the practice, WAEC directed all school proprietors, principals, supervisors, and invigilators to comply strictly with its regulations.

The Council reiterated that no examination official is permitted to collect money from candidates or their parents under any circumstance.

It also warned against any form of harassment, intimidation, or victimisation of candidates who refuse to pay unauthorised charges.

WAEC encouraged candidates, parents, and members of the public to report any extortion attempt immediately to the appropriate authorities.

The Council advised that complaints can be lodged through its zonal coordinators, branch controllers, or official communication channels.

According to WAEC, prompt reporting will help identify offenders and ensure that appropriate disciplinary measures are taken.