Head of Public Relations for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), John Kapi has confirmed that the 2024 BECE will come off as planned.
He assured that funds received are sufficient to cover the exam costs and settle outstanding debts.
In an interview with Kwadwo Safah-Danquah on Happy Morning Show, Mr. Kapi revealed that WAEC specifically owes GHC12.6 million for answer booklets, GHC.146 million for shading pencils, and GHC48 million for bond paper.
He explained that WAEC received a amount of GHC 2.284 million few weeks ago, which was immediately used to pay creditors.
He added that as soon as the government released GHC 47.125 million to them, their creditors started calling demanding payments.
Mr. Kapi noted that the delay in receiving these funds caused WAEC to rely on the goodwill of their suppliers, purchasing exam materials on credit.
According to him, WAEC prepares its budget for the each academic year in advance, citing that the 2024 budget was prepared in October 2023, submitted to the Parliamentary Select Committee on Education and the Education Ministry for inclusion in the national budget. However, delays in releasing these funds have created financial challenges.
He added that previously when students paid fees WAEC could procure materials ahead of time, but government fee absorption has introduced delays.
Kapi stressed that timely fund releases are essential for smooth operations, allowing WAEC to negotiate better prices and avoid extra costs associated with importing on credit.
“Delayed payments force WAEC to purchase materials at higher prices and sometimes airlift them to meet exam deadlines, incurring extra cost,” he noted.
