By Awa Dk Conteh
The West African Examination Council (WAEC) has awarded the ‘best performing’ students in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), and Gambia Basic Education Certificate Examination (GABECE).
The ceremony is part of WAEC’s annual national trophy for the best 3 performing students of WASSCE and GABECE in The Gambia.
The head of WAEC National Office in Banjul, Mr. Pa Samba Baldeh, said the criteria for the award may be stringent, but they are not beyond the reach of the students.
He said the academic records of the winners showed that they have been high-performing students throughout their academic courses; thus, serving as valedictorians of the Council’s examinations.
“They also achieved their grades without the slightest hint of examination malpractice, again proving that the Council’s examinations are passable at the highest level without any impropriety,” Mr. Baldeh said.
The presentation covered both West African Senior School Certificate Examinations and Gambia Basic Education Certificate Examinations in 2022 and 2023. For the 2023 WASSCE, Osuoha Daniel P. Merit, awardee and best performing candidate, won a cash prize of D44,200.00.
The first prize winner of GABECE, Aminata K Bojang of Gambia Methodist Academy went home with a cash prize of D18,000.
MamutTouray of SOS Herman Gmeiner for GABECE 2nd winner with a cash prize of D15, 000.
Fatoumatta Kanteh of St. Therese’s Upper Basic School came 3rd at GABECE and won a cash prize of D12, 000.
The Permanent Secretary at Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Ebrima Sisawo on behalf of the Minister, highlighted that over the years, government has demonstrated a lot of commitment in ensuring quality education for all. Consequently, he added that there is an increased support in infrastructural development and funding through partnerships with development partners.
“This has led to a significant increase in the number of classroom blocks added to the Upper and Senior Secondary Schools throughout the country. The increased in funding and recognition of the sector has improved conducive teaching and learning environments, thus contributing to quality education.
He added that the achievement will serve as inspiration and motivation to young people throughout the country.
Furthermore Mr. Sisawo congratulated the West African Examination Council for their strive to continue recognising excellence in the examinations they conduct.
He concluded by urging students to desist from all forms of examination malpractice as it can come with many consequences.
Osuoha advised his cohort to read and learn saying education is the only key to success. He therefore saluted all the awardees and encouraged other students to emulate.