MBSSE Introduces Dual-Curriculum Examinations for 2026 WASSCE

The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE) has announced a major reform in the national education system with the introduction of dual-curriculum examinations for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for school candidates.

The initiative, launched in partnership with the Sierra Leone Teachers’ Union (SLTU), the National Union of Private Schools (NUPS), the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), and the Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (CPSS), marks a key milestone under the government’s Free Quality School Education (FQSE) programme.

According to the Ministry, the new curriculum, developed to strengthen teaching and learning standards, will be examined for the first time in 2026. However, both the old and new curricula will operate concurrently from 2026 to 2027 to ensure a smooth transition for schools and candidates. English Language and Mathematics will remain compulsory for all students.

To maintain fairness and transparency, the MBSSE, WAEC, and CPSS will jointly supervise all examination activities. The Chief Education Officer (CEO) will recommend eligible schools for examination codes, while WAEC will retain final authority in approving examination centres.

In a bid to enhance efficiency, a new name-based registration system will be introduced to reduce duplication and registration errors. Schools are expected to submit verified candidate lists to their District Directors by June and to the MBSSE Headquarters by July each year.

Acknowledging the potential challenges faced by private schools in meeting registration deadlines, the CEO is expected to convene a special meeting with private school heads to strengthen coordination and compliance.

As part of the Ministry’s digital transformation agenda, training sessions will be conducted for school heads and teachers on the Continuous Assessment Score Sheets (CASS) and other electronic processes to promote data accuracy and accountability.

Reiterating its zero-tolerance stance on examination malpractice, the Ministry warned that principals and other school authorities found guilty of violating registration or examination protocols will face disciplinary action following due investigation.

Key examination timelines have been set as follows:

* Continuous Assessment Score Sheets (CASS) – Year 1: October 1 – December 31, 2026

* Birch Registration System (BRS) – Year 2: March 1 – April 30, 2026

* CASS – Year 3: May 1 – June 30, 2026

The MBSSE reaffirmed its commitment to upholding educational integrity and ensuring that the 2026 WASSCE transition is fair, transparent, and fully aligned with the goals of the Free Quality School Education initiative.