In Nigeria, there’s a big question mark hanging over the ongoing WAEC exams because of the strike by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress. 

This strike has got students worried if they will be able to continue their exams as planned. Sadly, it is not the first time that Nigeria’s young students are facing this situation. 

WAEC Students Worried Over The Strike

For Emmanuel, a diligent student from Lagos, who is writing WAEC exams, the strike is a source of worry for him.

With just weeks remaining to finish his exams, anxiety crept in. The possibility of disruptions to the ongoing exams has become too real.

“With the strike looming over us, I fear the exam I have been writing for the past few weeks might pause until further notice, causing a delay.” Emmanuel says, his voice bearing marks of worry.

Many students feel the same as Emmanuel. They are stressed because they don’t know if the strike will put their examination on hold.

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The NLC strike, a response to pressing economic grievances, has the potential to disrupt various sectors, including education.

As the crisis develops, parents like Mrs. Adeleke, who have committed their hopes and money to their children’s education, watch anxiously.

“I’ve sacrificed so much to ensure my children have access to quality education but with the uncertainty caused by the strike, I fear for their prospects and any disruption to their WAEC exams will destabilise the kids.”

Will The Strike Affect WAEC Exams?

With all of these in mind, Dr. Amos Dangut, Head of the Nigeria National Office of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), made a heartfelt plea to the organised labour unions.

He wants them to give WAEC an exemption from the ongoing nationwide strike.

His request is to ensure that the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), currently in progress, can be conducted without disruptions.

WAEC exam began on April 30. It will conclude on June 24, 2024. It is a critical exam for students across Nigeria, as they prepare for college education.

During an interview, Dr. Dangut empathised with Nigerian workers, but highlighted the severe consequences for students if the exams were disrupted.

Our Children Must Not Suffer

“We all know the difficulties we’re facing in the country. It’s a tough situation for everyone, including WAEC. But our children must not suffer because of this,” he stated.

Dr. Dangut emphasised the global implications of missing these exams.

“In today’s globalised world, not writing these exams will place our children at a severe disadvantage.”

Now, the fate of the students is hanging in the balance, with the labour unions having the final say.