The Executive Director of Africa Education Watch (EduWatch), Kofi Asare, has called for stronger examination monitoring and surveillance systems after revealing that some candidates attempt to bribe examiners by placing money inside their answer scripts.
Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Tuesday, August 4, Mr Asare said the practice was one of several methods used by candidates in an effort to influence the marking process and improve their examination results.
“In some instances, candidates put money in the examination scripts. They put money in the script for whoever is going to mark it,” he said.
According to him, such attempts can only succeed if an examiner compromises professional standards, stressing that examiners who maintain integrity are expected to report such incidents rather than accept the money.
Mr Asare argued that the persistence of examination malpractice highlights weaknesses in monitoring and enforcement mechanisms within the examination system.
He called for increased investment in surveillance, supervision and other measures aimed at detecting and preventing irregularities during examinations and the marking process.
The EduWatch Executive Director said institutions responsible for administering public examinations require stronger support to improve the credibility and integrity of the examination system.
His comments come after the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) announced sanctions against candidates involved in examination malpractice during the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
WAEC disclosed that the results of 601 candidates had been cancelled, while 167 results had been withheld and 2,722 cases were under investigation.
Mr Asare said the developments underscore the need for a comprehensive review of examination monitoring structures to ensure that malpractice is effectively addressed and public confidence in the examination system is strengthened.
