2025 WASSCE results decline due to lack of clear education formula - Dr Osei Adutwum

Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum has attributed the decline in the 2025 WASSCE results to the absence of a clear and structured "education formula" guiding the system. He argued that sustained improvement in education requires a deliberate approach supported by data, consistent execution and continuous academic support. He noted, "I believe that for you to succeed in everything, whether as a businessman or in public service, you need a formula. When you apply the formula, you may not get 100 per cent, but you will get 80 or 90 per cent. Things go wrong when there is no formula."

Dr. Adutwum explained that during his tenure as Education Minister, reforms were guided by structured data analysis from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to identify learning gaps. WAEC reports were reviewed annually to determine areas where students consistently struggled, particularly in mathematics and science. Examiners were brought in to train teachers so that when similar questions came again, students would be better prepared. Additional instructional time was introduced as part of reforms, including structured extra classes beyond normal school hours. Performance tracking by region also formed part of the reform strategy, allowing interventions to be tailored to specific needs.

Teacher deployment challenges were also addressed, where subject mismatches were identified. According to Dr. Adutwum, these coordinated interventions contributed to improvements in pass rates in core subjects over time. He expressed concern that some of these gains are being eroded due to policy discontinuities and the discontinuation of certain support systems.