The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has officially announced that the 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) will commence on Monday, July 29, and conclude on Friday, August 7, 2024.

Sallieu Kamara, WAEC’s Spokesman, confirmed that all pertinent details regarding the examination have been communicated to key stakeholders, including the Conference of Principals, the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education (MBSSE), and private schools. This communication aims to ensure a smooth examination period across the nation.

In preparation for the examination, WAEC has opened the Continuous Assessment Scores (CASS) Portal for Year 1 candidates from May 1 to September 30, 2024. Kamara emphasized that the CASS Year One submission is a mandatory requirement for schools to provide lists of candidates for the 2025 West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (WASSCE). The Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary Education has directed all school authorities to upload their candidates’ information to avoid any complications. Schools must also submit these lists to the Ministry for vetting before forwarding them to WAEC.

Kamara stressed the importance of adhering to these deadlines, stating, “Uploading of CASS Year One paves the way for school authorities to submit the list of candidates for the 2025 WASSCE.” Schools that fail to meet these requirements will be held responsible for any resulting issues.

Additionally, WAEC has opened the portal for candidates intending to take the 2024 November private WASSCE. The portal has been available since July 1 and will close on September 15, 2024. Kamara urged school authorities to comply with the deadlines to maintain the examination’s integrity.