2024 BECE in Jeopardy Due to Government’s GH¢95.83 Million Debt to WAEC

The 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) is uncertain due to challenges faced by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) in securing the required funds.

WAEC has only managed to secure GH¢2.3 million out of the GH¢95.83 million needed to conduct the examination, which is scheduled to take place from July 8th to July 15th, 2024.

John Kapi, WAEC’s Head of Public Relations, disclosed that while GH¢6 million has been processed through the Government Integrated Financial Management System (GIFMIS), it has not yet been received as cash.

He expressed concerns that the exam might face delays or might not proceed as scheduled without timely funds.

“As a result of our indebtedness, they are unwilling to supply any further materials for the next examination, which is the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for school candidates 2024,” Mr Kapi disclosed.

For instance, Mr. Kapi explained that the situation has significantly increased the cost of conducting their required examinations, emphasizing that “we have to airfreight some of the items needed for the examinations due to late purchases” instead of ordering to receive them by sea.

Mr. Kapi mentioned that due to delayed payments from relevant bodies for examination logistical materials, the council had to opt for airfreighting the script envelopes, which would cost approximately $29,000. This was instead of the cheaper option of sea freight, which would have cost the council about $6,500.

Several suppliers have extended credit for materials such as bond paper, answer booklets, and pencils, but additional supplies are jeopardized due to outstanding payments. The financial strain has compelled WAEC to resort to expensive airfreight for essential items, as sea freight is no longer viable.

The council urgently requires script envelopes for both the BECE and the upcoming West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

Mr. Kapi cautioned that the shortage of funds could affect every aspect of the examination process.