By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter, Daily Scope
In a startling revelation, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), Conrad Sackey, announced that over 5,570 candidates missed all subjects in the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). This absenteeism accounts for approximately 4.3% of the total registered candidates.
While the examination boasted a near-record pass rate among those who participated, the high number of absentees casts a shadow over the success of this year’s BECE. The Minister expressed alarm at the implications of such absenteeism, especially given the considerable investments made by the government, educational institutions, and families into the basic education system.
Minister Sackey acknowledged the pressing nature of the issue, stating, “We are aware of the situation, and actions have already begun that we believe will significantly reduce the number of absences in the coming year.”
In addition, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has withheld the results of more than 2,500 candidates due to various malpractices and administrative errors. Among these, 1,673 candidates had their entire results withheld.
The MBSSE reported that these candidates are part of the 129,260 who registered for the examination, highlighting the challenges facing the educational system.
For further inquiries, please contact Daily Scope Newspaper at dailyscopemedia@gmail.com.
