Gov’t takes measures to ensure hitch-free WASSCE

Government has directed Regional Coordinating Councils, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives to liaise with district directors of education to ensure ongoing West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examinations (WASSCE) are not disrupted.

A statement signed by Mr Mahama Ayariga, Information and Media Relations Minister on Tuesday said so far “the West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examinations are proceeding as planned without any hindrance” and several practical examinations had been conducted with appropriate invigilation.

The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) and the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) laid down their tools beginning Monday March 18, to press home their demand for better conditions of service. The strike came just when the second cycle students have started the WASSCEs.

Government, in the statement, assured parents and students that the examinations would be conducted as scheduled.

“In this regard, all Regional Coordinating Councils, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives are directed to liaise with their respective district directors of education and district coordinators of National Service to ensure that the examinations take place as scheduled under appropriate invigilation to ensure its integrity.”

The statement said it had come to the notice of Government that some teachers were generally not reporting to work at public basic schools or not teaching even when they report at the schools.

“Government is still awaiting the response of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), who requested for time to discuss, with the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), the outcome of the Sunday 17th March 2013 meeting held between Government and educational workers unions during which Government had extensive discussions with then on all the issues raised as the basis of the strike action.

“It remains the understanding of Government that the unions will revert to Government as soon as possible.

“While Government awaits the response of the unions, an appeal is being made to teachers to rescind their decision not to carry out their teaching assignments and to return to the classrooms to teach. Relevant agencies of Government are working towards addressing their concerns.”

Source: GNA