The West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) has confirmed the receipt of GH¢55 million from the government, addressing part of the arrears owed to them.
According to Winifred Ampiaw, the Public Relations Officer of WAEC, the funds will be utilised to organise this year's Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
Ms. Ampiaw specified that out of the total amount received, GH¢10.5 million is allocated for BECE while GH¢40 million will be used for WASSCE.
The budget for this year's examinations stands at approximately GH¢18 million for BECE and GH¢63.5 million for WASSCE, leaving a remaining balance of approximately GH¢7.5 million.
The PRO assured the public that the received funds are sufficient to successfully conduct both exams, as the necessary resources have been adequately allocated for the pre-exam activities and the execution of the examinations.
Meanwhile, the Minority in Parliament has raised concerns over the government's outstanding debts to WAEC, warning that the 2023 WASSCE and BECE could face setbacks if these arrears are not settled.
Peter Nortsu-Kotoe, the Minority Spokesperson on Education, highlighted that WAEC requires about GH₵50 million to clear its debts.
The government had paid GH₵50 million out of the GH₵83 million arrears in 2022, addressing the 2020/2021 outstanding payments.
In response to the Minority's claims, Deputy Education Minister, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, affirmed that the government is actively working to fulfill the outstanding financial requirements to support WAEC in conducting the exams without any disruptions.
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