The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) recently released the results of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for private candidates conducted between October 27 and December 20, 2023. The released data sheds light on various aspects of the examination, including the number of candidates, pass rates, and gender distribution.
Examination Overview
A total of 85,600 candidates registered for the WASSCE for private candidates, with 80,904 eventually sitting the examinations across 568 centers nationwide. WAEC reported that 49.18% of the candidates were males (39,790), and 50.82% were females (41,114).
Result Statistics
Out of the total candidates who sat the examination, WAEC revealed that 96.93% (78,419) had their results fully processed and released. However, 3.07% (2,485 candidates) had some subjects still undergoing processing due to errors traceable to them. The examination body assured that efforts were underway to swiftly resolve these issues.
Pass Rates
When it comes to tertiary education admissions in Nigeria, obtaining credits in relevant subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, is crucial. From the data, only 44.29% of candidates (35,830) achieved this feat. It’s noteworthy that out of these successful candidates, 49.21% were male (17,631), while 50.79% were female (18,199).
The Uniqueness of Private WAEC
WAEC said that the pass rate analysis for private candidates should not be directly compared with that of school candidates. Private candidates have the flexibility to register for eight or nine subjects but are not obliged to take all, as they can choose to address specific deficiencies.
This unique aspect, according to WAEC, distinguishes the private candidates’ examination as a remedial opportunity rather than a measure of dwindling performance.
About the Results
The release of the private candidates’ WASSCE results comes against the backdrop of the consistently high pass rates (around 75%) for school candidates in recent times. It’s important to note that the number of candidates for school WASSCE is significantly higher, sometimes reaching 1.5 million, while private candidates have the flexibility to choose the number of subjects based on their specific needs.
Withheld Results
While WAEC celebrates the success of many candidates, there is uncertainty for 8.89% of the remaining candidates. The examination body disclosed that a total of 7,192 candidates are currently facing withheld results due to alleged infractions.
Ongoing Investigations
WAEC assured the public that these cases are under thorough investigation, and the findings will be presented to the appropriate Committee of the Council for consideration. The decisions reached by the committee will be communicated directly to the affected candidates.
Checking Results
WAEC advised candidates to check their results promptly by visiting its official website. Additionally, candidates were urged to confirm their result status before heading to the digital certificate platform, where digital copies of their certificates have been released alongside the results.
Special Needs Consideration
Acknowledging the importance of inclusivity, WAEC highlighted that out of the 80,904 candidates who sat the examinations, 211 had varying degrees of special needs. The breakdown revealed that 33 candidates were visually challenged, 21 had impaired hearing, and 30 were Albinos.
Accommodating Candidates With Special Needs
WAEC emphasized its commitment to accommodating candidates with special needs, affirming that these individuals were adequately provided for during the examination administration. This commitment aligns with the broader goal of creating an inclusive and accessible educational environment.
How to Check Your WAEC Results Online
WAEC provides a straightforward online platform for candidates to check their WASSCE results. Follow these steps:
- Log in to the official WAEC Result Checker website to initiate the result verification process.
- Input your 10-digit Examination Number. This comprises your 7-digit center number followed by your 3-digit candidate number (e.g., 4123456789).
- Provide the 4 digits of your Examination Year (e.g., 2022).
- Select the Type of Examination.
- Enter the e-PIN Voucher Number.
- Enter the Personal Identification Number (PIN) found on your e-PIN
- Click the submit button and patiently wait for the results window to appear.
How to Check WAEC Results via SMS
For those who prefer a mobile-centric approach, WAEC offers a convenient SMS option. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Using your mobile device, type: WAECExamNoPINExamYear (e.g., WAEC42501010011234567890122023
- Send the SMS to 32327
- Expect your result to be delivered to your phone via SMS. Please note that there is a ₦30 charge for this service.
Important Notes
- To check your result via text message, you need to purchase the WAECDirect Scratch card. The scratch card pin is compulsory for the PIN section of the SMS sent to 32327.
- SMS charges will be applicable when checking your WASSCE results using text messages.
Conclusion
The release of the WASSCE 2023 private candidates’ results by WAEC reveals a nuanced picture. While celebrating a pass rate of 44.29%, the examination body addresses challenges such as withheld results and pointed out the inclusive nature of the examination.