President Bio Accuses WAEC, Says Evidence Exists on Malpractice

President Julius Maada Bio has raised concerns over examination malpractice in Sierra Leone, stating that the government has evidence pointing to lapses in accountability within the examination system overseen by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

He made the remarks during the Presidential Town Hall 2026 in Makeni, where he addressed broader issues affecting the integrity of public examinations and their impact on the education sector.

The President expressed concern that continued malpractice is undermining government efforts under the Free Quality School Education programme, which has been a flagship initiative aimed at improving access to and quality of education across the country.

He warned that examination malpractice threatens the credibility of the education system and has long-term consequences for national development and human capital formation.

“We had a big name because of the education we were distributing to Africa. Today, people are taking part in the destruction of this golden moment,” he said.

He further stressed that cheating in examinations is damaging the future of young people and weakening national progress.

“We are destroying our next generation with this unpatriotic act. We have a high IQ; we cannot be this lazy. We are killing ourselves with this bad act,” he added.

President Bio noted that examination malpractice is not only an academic issue but also a national challenge that affects Sierra Leone’s international reputation and development prospects.

He called on all education stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and examination bodies, to work collectively in restoring discipline, credibility, and integrity within the education system.

He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening the Free Quality School Education programme while ensuring accountability and reforms in national examination processes.