By Sahrfoa Matturie
President Julius Maada Bio has renewed his administration’s commitment to combating examination malpractice, declaring that he possesses evidence to support allegations he previously made against the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).
The President made the remarks during the Presidential Town Hall Meeting in Makeni, where he addressed concerns about the integrity of Sierra Leone’s education system and reiterated his determination to restore public confidence in national examinations.
Speaking to participants, President Bio said his government remains resolute in its efforts to safeguard the credibility of the country’s academic qualifications by eliminating all forms of examination malpractice. He stressed that meaningful educational reform cannot be achieved if cheating and other irregularities continue to undermine public examinations.
The President called on students, teachers, parents, school administrators, examination officials, and the wider public to work collectively in protecting the integrity of the education system. He emphasized that tackling examination malpractice is a shared national responsibility that requires commitment from every stakeholder.
President Bio said Sierra Leone’s ambition to reclaim its historic reputation as the “Athens of West Africa” depends on building an education system founded on honesty, merit, discipline, and accountability. According to him, the country’s future workforce must earn qualifications through genuine effort rather than dishonest practices.
Responding to public reactions over his earlier comments regarding WAEC, the President maintained that his allegations were based on evidence and not speculation. He stated that he has information to substantiate his claims, although he did not publicly disclose the details during the Town Hall engagement.
“I have evidence,” the President said, insisting that his comments were made responsibly and would be supported by facts.
President Bio further noted that his government’s education reforms are intended to promote transparency, fairness, and credibility throughout the examination process. He warned that widespread examination malpractice not only compromises the quality of education but also diminishes public trust in academic certificates and limits opportunities for deserving students.
He concluded by reaffirming his administration’s resolve to strengthen the education sector through reforms that uphold integrity and accountability, while urging all stakeholders to reject examination fraud and support efforts to preserve the credibility of Sierra Leone’s educational system.
The President’s latest remarks are expected to intensify public debate on the management of national examinations and the broader need for stronger oversight and accountability within Sierra Leone’s education sector.
