Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Justice Ganawah, an economist and senior lecturer at Fourah Bay College, has urged for sweeping education reforms in Sierra Leone. He argues that rising examination passes do not necessarily reflect improved learning outcomes. Ganawah made the call in an opinion article examining the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) results. The results were released by the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education on October 27.
The 2026 WASSCE results have raised concerns about examination integrity, English Language proficiency, and the quality of teaching in secondary schools. Ganawah, a former WASSCE candidate, teacher, and university lecturer, questioned the decision to withhold results for 47,454 candidates over suspected examination malpractice. He urged the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and education authorities to conduct prompt, impartial investigations.
The economist stressed that the affected candidates should receive individual assessments, clear explanations, and an opportunity to challenge decisions. Prolonged delays could undermine their access to further education. According to the results, 62.15% of candidates obtained a credit in Mathematics, while only 9.77% achieved a credit in English Language. This significant difference raises questions about classroom instruction, syllabus coverage, and the credibility of examination outcomes.
Ganawah recommended tougher measures to prevent cheating during future examinations. These measures include stricter controls on mobile phones in examination halls, improved supervision, rotating examination supervisors, and stronger accountability for officials who facilitate irregularities. He also called for better preparation of English Language teachers, improved access to reading materials, and regular assessment of literacy skills.
The economist further urged the government, parents, teachers, school administrators, past pupils' associations, and WAEC to work together in addressing weaknesses in the education system. He maintains that the country's education priorities should extend beyond examination passes to ensuring that students acquire the knowledge and skills needed for higher education and employment.
The concerns emerged from the 2026 WASSCE results announced in Freetown on October 27 by Basic and Senior Secondary Education Minister Conrad Sackey. Ganawah's assessment draws on the minister's announcement and the examination figures released to the public. His analysis was published in The Sierra Leone Telegraph on October 31.
The 2026 WASSCE results have sparked a national conversation about the state of education in Sierra Leone. As stakeholders engage with the issues raised, the government faces pressure to address the concerns and work towards improving the quality of education.
Key points
- Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Justice Ganawah calls for education reforms due to concerns over 2026 WASSCE results.
- The 2026 WASSCE results show a significant difference in performance between Mathematics and English Language.
- Ganawah recommends tougher measures to prevent cheating and improve the quality of teaching in secondary schools.
