The Minister for Education, Mr Haruna Iddrisu, has received the Chairman of the Council of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Professor Thomas B. R. Yormah, and his delegation as part of activities leading to the Council’s 74th Anniversary celebration, which Ghana will host this year.
The visit offered the newly elected Chairman the opportunity to formally introduce himself to the Government of Ghana through the Minister, in line with WAEC’s longstanding practice.
The Minister for Education, Mr Haruna Iddrisu, welcomed the delegation and congratulated Prof. Yomah on his nomination and described the visit as timely, given ongoing reforms and innovations within the education sector.
The Minister expressed concern over the persistent deficit in Mathematics and Science education, noting that these areas remain a priority for the government.
He stressed Ghana’s commitment to supporting WAEC’s mandate and emphasised the need to safeguard the integrity of examinations, particularly in an era increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence and digital technologies.
On his part, Prof. Yormah conveyed goodwill from WAEC’s member countries and congratulated the Minister, expressing confidence in his leadership of the education sector.
He explained that his visit was part of a Council tradition that allows newly appointed Chairpersons to engage Ministers of Education and, through them, their respective Heads of State.
“My courtesy visit to you today is intended to provide an opportunity for me to present myself and the organisation I have accepted to chair for three years,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to the Government of Ghana for its longstanding support to the Council since its establishment in 1952, and appealed to the Minister to facilitate a courtesy call on the President of the Republic as part of the Council’s official engagements.
Prof. Yormah noted that the anniversary conference would provide a platform for member countries to reflect on WAEC’s achievements, assess current challenges, and explore innovative approaches to examination delivery in a rapidly evolving global environment.
He noted the Council’s commitment to uphold high standards in assessment and working collaboratively with stakeholders to strengthen the credibility, relevance, and future readiness of examinations across West Africa.
Priscilla Osei-Wusu Nimako, ISD
