Freetown, Sierra Leone — April 26, 2025 – The Coalition for Principals’ Solidarity (CPS), a powerful body representing school leaders across Sierra Leone, has issued a bold ultimatum to the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), calling for sweeping reforms within the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).
In a strongly worded letter issued yesterday to key stakeholders, including the Inspector General of Police, Civil Society Organizations, and international partners, the coalition accused WAEC of “systemic failures, lack of transparency, and a disregard for educational stakeholders.”
“We can no longer stand idly by while the integrity of our education system deteriorates,” the coalition stated. “WAEC’s current operations are a betrayal of the trust placed in them by students, parents, and educators alike.”
Among the most striking measures announced, CPS declared that principals nationwide will not participate in the administration of the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
“No principal under our coalition will partake in any process related to WASSCE,” they emphasized, citing WAEC’s alleged failure to collaborate in maintaining examination integrity and fairness.
In addition, the coalition instructed all teachers to immediately withdraw from invigilation duties for any WAEC-administered examinations.
“Our teachers are instructed to refrain from any form of supervision during WASSCE or other exams organized by WAEC,” the letter said. “We must protect their dignity and professional integrity.”
The Coalition also announced plans for peaceful demonstrations across all WAEC district offices, including the Western Region, to demand transparency and accountability.
“We call on parents — especially mothers — to join us in this national campaign. The future of our children is at stake,” CPS urged.
In a dramatic move, the coalition gave WAEC a 72-hour ultimatum to retrieve all scannable examination materials from schools across the country. They also demanded that WAEC find alternative venues for conducting exams, warning that their institutions would not be available under the current circumstances.
“We categorically reject WAEC’s continued monopoly over our educational system,” CPS declared. “We demand the introduction of a new international examination body — one that will uphold the standards of transparency, integrity, and excellence that our students deserve.”
The coalition reiterated its openness to dialogue but stressed it would not compromise on the dignity of educators and the rights of students.
“The credibility of our national education system must be protected at all costs,” the coalition concluded.
As of press time, WAEC had not officially responded to the ultimatum.
