Gov’t Dismisses Blame for 2025 WASSCE Decline

The government has rejected claims that it is responsible for the decline in performance recorded in the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), describing the results as a wake-up call for broader reforms in secondary education.
Speaking at the inauguration of the governing councils of four Colleges of Education, Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu dismissed public criticism that links the poor results to the government, the Ministry of Education, or examination bodies. He argued that student performance should not be politicised. “In Ghana, when students perform well, we credit the students. When they fail, we blame the Minister. I refuse to accept that the government of President Mahama, the Ministry of Education, or the assessment body is responsible for this poor performance,” Mr. Iddrisu stated.
He said the outcome of the 2025 WASSCE should prompt a comprehensive assessment of the secondary education system, with particular attention to quality assurance, teaching and learning conditions, and infrastructure development.
The Minister expressed concern about the state of infrastructure in many senior high schools, noting that several institutions have operated for years without expansion. “Many institutions, from many years ago till yesterday, are still operating with the same infrastructure. Over the years, not a single dormitory or building has been added to their facilities,” he said.
Mr. Iddrisu also announced that the government has secured $200 million in funding from the World Bank to eliminate the double-track system in schools. He explained that the funds would be used to upgrade school categories and expand facilities nationwide.
According to him, the plan includes converting 30 Category C schools to Category B, upgrading 10 Category B schools to Category A, and expanding infrastructure in all Category A schools, as part of efforts to improve learning conditions and raise educational standards.