The Ghana Education Service has dismissed accusations by former Education Minister Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum that poor management practices caused the decline in student performance in the 2025 WASSCE.

In a statement released on Monday December 1 and signed by its Public Relations Head, Daniel Fenyi, the service described Dr Adutwum’s comments as misplaced and urged the public to disregard them.

According to the GES, the 2025 results simply reflect the true academic output of candidates, not any shortcomings from management. “Management has taken note of attempts by Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum to attribute the performance of students in the 2025 WASSCE to unsupportive management practices of GES,” the statement said, adding that the former minister’s claims do not match the realities of the examination process.

The 2025 WASSCE recorded significant drops across core subjects. Social Studies fell to 55.82 percent, down from 71.53 percent in 2024, the lowest in four years. Core Mathematics saw an even steeper dip, with only 48.73 percent passing compared with 66.86 percent the previous year. The failure rate ballooned from 6.10 percent to 26.77 percent, meaning nearly one in four candidates failed the subject.

English Language held at 69 percent, while Integrated Science dropped slightly to 57.74 percent. In all, 461,736 students from 1,021 schools wrote the exams, a small increase from 2024.

Mr Fenyi said the strict supervision and tougher invigilation this year contributed to the outcome. He noted that several students and some staff were arrested after attempting to cheat. “The 2025 WASSCE was conducted under heightened invigilation, strengthened supervision and strict adherence to examination protocols,” he added.

The GES also pushed back against Dr Adutwum’s claims that teachers’ allowances had been cancelled. It clarified that the Controller and Accountant General’s Department had already explained the delay in November payments.

“It is not true that the GES has cancelled any allowances due to teachers,” the statement emphasised.

The service insisted that the results present a credible picture of candidates’ abilities and show improvements in examination integrity. It added that protecting the credibility of the system remains a top priority.

GES further reminded students that Ghana will return to the international May or June WASSCE in 2026 and urged them to prepare well for the shift.

“Management will not compromise the integrity of examinations and will continue to work with all stakeholders to improve teaching, learning and examination systems,” it noted.

The statement comes as the release of the 2025 WASSCE results sparks nationwide debate over the state of Ghana’s education sector.

The 2001 Year Group of the Accra Academy Old Boys Association (AAOBA), popularly known as BLEOO 2G1, has officially launched its 25th Anniversary Celebration under the inspiring theme “Celebrating Brotherhood, Impact and Legacy.”

The media launch, held at the Accra Academy campus on Sunday, November 9, 2025, brought together distinguished alumni, school leadership, students, and invited guests to unveil the year-long anniversary plans, logo, and legacy projects.

The event was graced by the Guest of Honour, Mr. Philip Kwame Tieku, Chief Executive Officer of Star Oil Ghana, who expressed his delight in being part of the milestone celebration. Mr. Tieku, also a member of the year group commended the year group for it’s commitment to giving back to it’s alma mater and pledged his support toward the successful renovation of the Dining Hall and Kitchen Complex Legacy Project.

The launch also saw in attendance the Global President of AAOBA, the Headmaster of Accra Academy, representatives of St. Mary’s Old Girls Association (SMOGA), members of staff, students, and other well-wishers who came together to celebrate the enduring spirit of BLEOO brotherhood.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr. Ernest Boakye-Yiadom, noted that the 25th anniversary seeks to reflect on the group’s shared journey since leaving the walls of Accra Academy, and to rekindle the spirit of unity, mentorship, and contribution to the school’s development.

“This celebration is about more than nostalgia — it’s about impact. It’s about standing together to make a difference and to leave a mark that aligns with our motto: Esse Quam Videri — To Be Rather Than to Seem,” he stated.

The Global President of AAOBA commended BLEOO 2G1 for their leadership, discipline, and service, describing them as a shining example of how year groups can make tangible contributions to the growth of their alma mater and community.

The event also featured the unveiling of the 25th Anniversary logo and Mascot, the presentation of the Legacy Project, solidarity messages from partner alumni associations including SMOGA and media interaction session.

The Headmaster of Accra Academy, in his address, praised BLEOO 2G1 for their loyalty and initiative, noting that alumni support plays a critical role in maintaining academic excellence and infrastructure growth at the school.

“Our old boys continue to inspire us. Their love for the school shows in their actions, and this project is a true reflection of that commitment,” he remarked.

BLEOO 2G1 President, Mr. Daniel Adjetey Adjeye, emphasized that the anniversary celebrations will extend throughout 2026 with activities such as mentorship programs, community service initiatives, and the commissioning of the Legacy Project.

He called on alumni, sponsors, and corporate institutions to partner with the group in building a stronger future for Accra Academy.

“We are grateful for all who have walked with us on this journey. Together, we can leave behind a legacy that every BLEOO can be proud of,” he added.

The launch concluded with a group photo, networking session, and renewed calls for collective responsibility in nurturing the next generation of BLEOO men.

The Ghana Education Service (GES) has received financial clearance from the Ministry of Finance to pay salaries owed to 6,249 teachers recruited in 2024.

In a statement issued on Thursday, October 16, and signed by its Head of Public Relations, Daniel Fenyi, the GES said the approval will allow it to finalize all administrative steps needed to process and release the payments.

“This financial clearance covers the salaries of six thousand, two hundred and forty-nine (6,249) teachers recruited in 2024,” the statement noted.

GES assured that the necessary arrangements are being made to ensure the affected teachers are added to the mechanised payroll in time for their November 2025 salary payments. The clearance, however, expires on December 31, 2025.

Management of the Service expressed gratitude to the teachers for their patience and commitment, adding that efforts are ongoing to ensure salaries are processed accurately and on time.

“Management thanked all staff for their dedication and remains committed to ensuring timely and transparent salary payments,” the statement concluded.