The Ministry of Education has issued a stern warning against any form of examination malpractice involving teaching and non-teaching staff as the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) officially commences today.

According to a statement released on Tuesday, August 5, Deputy Minister, Dr Clement Apaak, reiterated that the integrity and credibility of the examinations must be upheld at all costs.

The Ministry, in collaboration with the Ghana Education Service (GES), the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), and security agencies, has vowed to clamp down on any attempts to cheat, leak, or compromise the process.

“Staff members found guilty of aiding or abetting examination malpractice will face severe disciplinary action, including dismissal and potential imprisonment,” Dr Apaak emphasised.

“The integrity of our examinations is non-negotiable, and all personnel are expected to maintain the highest standards of honesty and accountability,” he added.

The Ministry further urged school authorities, invigilators, and supervisors to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities before, during, or after the exams.

It stressed that safeguarding the fairness of the examination is a collective responsibility and that those who compromise the system will be dealt with swiftly and publicly.

“Schools are centres of learning, not breeding grounds for dishonesty,” said the Deputy Minister. “We are closely monitoring all activities this year, and there will be zero tolerance for malpractice.”

The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, added: “ There must be zero tolerance for exam malpractice across the country. The young people must grow up with integrity. No student should ever be associated with exam malpractice.”

To candidates sitting this year’s WASSCE, the Ministry offered words of encouragement: “We urge you to remain focused and confident. You have been prepared well. You have what it takes to succeed with integrity. Believe in yourselves, and go into the examination room knowing that your best effort is enough."

The Ministry concluded by wishing all candidates success as they embark on this crucial academic milestone.