The West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) scheduled for May/June this year has been suspended over the coronavirus outbreak.

The West African Examination Council (WAEC) says it took the decision in support of measures put in place by member countries to prevent the spread of the pandemic.

In a letter copied to JoyNews, the Council said the decision was based on a reschedule proposal from the WAEC Secretariat, that has been approved by the Chairman of the Council.

In a nationwide address on Sunday, March 15, 2020, President Akufo-Addo suspended all educational activities in the country with the exception of students who will be taking part in this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

They were allowed to attend school to prepare for their examinations.

The decision raised concerns from parents and teacher unions who asked government to include the final year students and their teachers in order to avoid massive spread of the virus.

After an increase in the cases confirmed in Ghana, the Health Ministry directed all Principals and Directors of schools to allow all final year students of basic schools and Senior High Schools to go home till further notice.

Reacting to this new directive, WAEC says it has also decided to suspend the 2020 timetable of WASSCE until further notice.

According to the Council, it will review its current decision when the health situation improves.

Find the statement from WAEC below