By Juliana E.P. Kabba
Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has launched an urgent intervention following the West African Examinations Council’s (WAEC) decision to withhold the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results of over 25,000 students. The decision has left students and families across the country anxious about their future academic and career prospects.
The withheld results affect students nationwide, disrupting plans for university admissions, scholarships, and job applications—all of which heavily rely on WASSCE outcomes. For many students, the delay could result in missed opportunities, adding urgency to the situation.
To address the issue, the MBSSE has scheduled a special meeting of the Sierra Leone Examination Committee on November 5 and 6, 2024. The meeting, chaired by Chief Education Officer Professor Yatta Kanu, aims to review the reasons behind the withheld results and ensure a resolution that safeguards the interests of affected students.
In an official statement, the Ministry assured the public of a transparent and equitable review process. “Students’ futures are our priority,” the statement emphasized, acknowledging the potential long-term impact delayed results could have on educational and career pathways.
The Ministry also appealed for patience and calm among students, parents, and schools while the review process is underway. It further pledged to work closely with WAEC to address procedural shortcomings and prevent similar issues in future examinations.
As part of its commitment to improving the examination process, the MBSSE plans to enhance communication with students and schools during administrative challenges. This includes keeping affected students informed and providing necessary support to mitigate disruptions.
The Ministry’s swift response is seen as a crucial step in restoring public confidence in the examination system. With the review underway, affected students and their families remain hopeful for a resolution that allows them to continue pursuing their academic and career aspirations without undue delays.
