WAEC Shifts Exam Timing and Questions to Fight Cross-Border “Apor” Leakages

The West African Examinations Council has introduced new adjustments to examination questions and schedules in a bid to curb cross-border leakages affecting its examinations across West Africa.

Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, explained that the move follows repeated incidents of “apor” (exam leakage) involving coordinated malpractice between some participating countries.

Speaking on Badwam on Adom TV, he noted that Ghana and Nigeria previously wrote the same examination papers at the same time, a situation that made it easier for leaked questions to spread across borders.

He said WAEC has now reviewed both the timing and structure of the examinations to strengthen security and protect the integrity of the process.

“We’ve made adjustments to the questions and timing. Starting earlier helps prevent cross-border leakages,” he stated.

Mr. Kapi further explained that due to Nigeria being one hour ahead of Ghana, the exam schedule has also been modified, with Ghana now starting at 8:30 am instead of the usual 9:00 am.

He added that similar adjustments have been made in other participating countries to ensure coordination and reduce opportunities for malpractice.

According to him, the reforms are aimed at ensuring fairness for all candidates while preserving the credibility of WAEC examinations across the region.