Ex-President Mahama’s criticism of WASSCE results without merit-NPP
The campaign team of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has advised the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Mahama, against undermining the efforts and achievements of students who sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
The NPP emphasized the importance of acknowledging the intelligence, efforts, and sacrifices of the students regardless of political interests.
Director of Communications for the Bawumia Campaign Team Dennis Miracles Aboagye, at a press conference in Accra cautioned against the former president against politicizing the academic achievements of students.
Highlighting the broader context of academic achievements in Ghana, Mr Aboagye cited instances where Ghanaian students have excelled on the international stage, including victories in prestigious competitions such as the Robofest beating contenders from USA, Mexico.
He argued that these successes demonstrate the quality of education in Ghana beyond WASSCE results.
Mr Aboagye also addressed allegations of examination leakages, acknowledging historical incidents but highlighting preventive measures implemented by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to address such challenges.
Furthermore, he criticized Mr Mahama’s response to examination leakages during his tenure as president, citing instances where leaked papers were not canceled or examinations rescheduled.
He underscored the ongoing efforts by WAEC to maintain examination integrity.
2020 to 2023 pass rates
The West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) pass rates in Ghana have shown a steady improvement over the years, reflecting positive strides in the country’s educational sector.
2020
In 2020, the first batch of beneficiaries of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy wrote the WASSCE, with 57.34% passing in English, 65.71% in Core Mathematics, 52.53% in Integrated Science, and 64.31% in Social Studies.
2021
The following year, in 2021, the pass rates remained relatively stable, with 54.08% passing in English, 54.11% in Core Mathematics, 65.70% in Integrated Science, and 66.03% in Social Studies.
2022
However, significant improvements were observed in 2022, with pass rates increasing across all subjects. Mathematics saw a notable improvement, with 61.39% recording A1 to C6 grades compared to 33.12% in 2016.
Similarly, Social Studies had a pass rate of 71.5% compared to 54.5% in 2016, Integrated Science had 62.45% compared to 48.35% in 2016, and English had 60.39% compared to 51.6% in 2016.
2023
The trend continued in 2023, with even higher pass rates recorded. English saw a pass rate of 73.11%, Core Mathematics had 62.23%, Integrated Science had 66.82%, and Social Studies had an impressive 76.76%.
These improvements in WASSCE pass rates reflect the effectiveness of government policies such as the Free SHS initiative in enhancing access to education and improving educational outcomes.
They also highlight the dedication of students and educators in Ghana to excel academically.
This discourse revolves around appropriate policies and practices to adequately prepare Ghanaian students for contemporary challenges.
Additionally, the ongoing dialogue surrounding educational policies, such as the funding of Senior High School Education, underscores the importance of education in Ghana’s socio-political landscape.
While the government advocates for the continuation of free Senior High School education, the opposition argues for a review that may involve parents and guardians paying fees.
