The Government Should Inform Parents To Pay Their Children's BECE/WASSCE Registration Fees

In a troubling development for education in Ghana, the government's persistent failure to settle its debts with the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has sparked concerns and criticism. Since 2022, an outstanding amount of 340 million Ghanaian cedis has been owed to WAEC, with only a fraction—15%—paid off by August 7, 2023.

Recently, a partial payment of Gh¢47.125 million was made amidst claims that the debt had been fully settled. This misinformation has exacerbated frustrations, especially considering that private schools, which are not indebted to WAEC, operate without such financial encumbrances.

Critics argue that these financial challenges expose a troubling trend of fiscal irresponsibility on the part of the government. Despite controlling substantial tax revenue and abundant natural resources, the government has struggled to fulfill its basic obligation of covering the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) registration fees. This situation not only undermines the credibility of government assurances but also jeopardizes the smooth operation of WAEC, potentially impacting the educational outcomes of thousands of students across the country.

In the light of these developments, the Educate Africa Institute (EAI) offers a straightforward recommendation: transparency and accountability. The government must candidly inform parents whose children attend government schools that they may need to directly cover these examination fees. Such upfront communication could prevent the accumulation of substantial debts, which ultimately impede WAEC's ability to function effectively.

By adopting a more honest approach, the government can mitigate the adverse effects of its financial shortcomings on the education sector, ensuring a more sustainable future for Ghana's students.

We're one people. Ghana first!!!

Categoria:

Educação 

Organização:

Educate Africa Institute (E.A.I)

Escrito por:

William Boadi

Localização:

Ghana