Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education Conrad Sackey has warned schools that individuals found responsible for examination malpractice will face punitive sanctions.

Speaking during a Special Civic Town Hall Event at the Miatta Civic Conference Centre in Freetown on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, Sackey said the Ministry would take action against schools where there is sufficient evidence of involvement in examination malpractice.

The Minister cited last year’s disciplinary action, revealing that 58 school principals were suspended for one year without pay over examination-related offences.

He said the sanctions demonstrate the Government’s determination to hold school authorities accountable where evidence establishes wrongdoing.

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Sackey’s warning comes as the Ministry continues to investigate alleged malpractice involving 326 candidates in the 2026 NPSE.

He stressed, however, that the broader figure of 1,927 withheld results should not be interpreted as 1,927 malpractice cases, noting that approximately 1,640 of those results were withheld because the candidates’ schools had not submitted their Continuous Assessment Cards.

The Minister said the Ministry would continue reviewing feedback from the public and taking decisive action where necessary.

He also disclosed that the Ministry’s senior management team regularly reviews information and complaints received from the public as part of efforts to identify weaknesses and improve the examination system.

Sackey maintained that while the NPSE system faces challenges, the overall performance of candidates demonstrates significant progress, with 78.2 percent of more than 161,000 candidates passing the 2026 examination.

He said the Government’s focus would remain on strengthening the system while ensuring that pupils receive a fair opportunity to succeed.