WAEC Cancels 653 Results, Annuls Thousands of Papers in 2025 WASSCE Malpractice Crackdown
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has rolled out one of its most extensive disciplinary actions in recent years, following widespread cases of malpractice during the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
In a statement signed by WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, the Council confirmed that the entire results of 653 candidates have been cancelled outright. These candidates were found in possession of mobile phones inside examination halls, a violation that automatically triggers the cancellation of all papers under WAEC regulations.
The crackdown did not end there. A further 6,295 candidates had their subject results annulled after being caught with unauthorized materials, including prepared notes, textbooks, and printed sheets smuggled into exam centres. Meanwhile, 1,066 candidates remain under investigation, comprising 908 whose subject results are currently withheld and 158 whose entire results are on hold pending the conclusion of inquiries into suspected offences.
The Council also revealed that results from 185 schools have been withheld due to allegations of collusion among candidates. WAEC indicated that final decisions on these schools will be made before the end of December 2025, after thorough reviews by the Ghana Examinations Committee.
Beyond the candidates, the scandal has implicated 35 individuals, including 19 teachers, who were found to have played roles in compromising the integrity of the exams. WAEC disclosed that 19 of these individuals have already been convicted in court, while the remaining 16 are expected to be arraigned in the coming weeks.
The Council emphasized that these measures are part of its broader commitment to safeguarding the credibility of the WASSCE, which remains a critical qualification for secondary school graduates across West Africa. WAEC expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Education, the Ghana Education Service, security agencies, school heads, supervisors, and examination officials for their collaboration in ensuring the exams were conducted and results released despite the challenges posed by malpractice.
This disciplinary action underscores WAEC’s determination to uphold standards and protect the integrity of the examination process. With thousands of candidates affected and dozens of educators facing sanctions, the 2025 WASSCE will be remembered not only for its results but also for the Council’s uncompromising stance against cheating and collusion.
