Eighteen-year-old Ghanaian David Nii Commey Ankrah, a student at Hope College in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana, has clinched first place in the WAEC International Excellence Awards for his outstanding performance in the 2024 West African Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
Ankrah, currently a student at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, surpassed his fellow Ghanaian Henschel T. Frempong-Manso of Kade Senior High School, Eastern Region, who finished in second place, and Debrah Benedict Ofori of Presbyterian Boys’ Secondary School, who came in third.
They were among over one million candidates who sat for the WASSCE for school candidates in 2024 across The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.
In his acceptance speech, Ankrah commended the WAEC Council for providing opportunities for students to prepare themselves for the larger society.
“This award symbolizes our dedication and effort, but we couldn’t have achieved it alone. First, we thank the Almighty God for His protection and guidance throughout this journey,” said Ankrah.
He also expressed gratitude to WAEC for creating examinations that prepare students to meet the needs of the world, urging them to continue striving for excellence.
Ankrah acknowledged the challenges of sitting for the exam but emphasized that with boldness, commitment, confidence, and dedication, they were able to succeed.
“We didn’t know what to expect, but we moved forward with confidence, eager to take on the challenges ahead. In September 2024, we faced one of our biggest challenges yet—a test of our knowledge and abilities. By the grace of God, we succeeded and were recognized as the three best candidates for the WASSCE 2024 examination. It brought us great joy to see our hard work pay off,” the WASSCE Dux added.
For his part, President Joseph Nyumah Boakai praised WAEC for its critical role in shaping the future of West African nations.
According to the Liberian leader, for more than half a century, WAEC has been at the forefront of educational assessment in West Africa, ensuring that students receive credible and standardized examinations, which is commendable.
“WAEC has played a significant role in providing a framework that allows for transparency, accountability, and fairness in assessing academic achievements across the region,” President Boakai stated.
He lauded the council for continuously demonstrating its commitment to academic excellence, regional cooperation, and global best practices.
“Education is not only a pathway to knowledge but also an essential instrument of empowerment, economic growth, and social development. To echo the words of the late iconic South African statesman, Nelson Mandela, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,’” the President added.
President Boakai reaffirmed his government’s commitment to investing in education as a tool for development.
“This 73-year journey of WAEC is a testament to the resilience of our educational systems and the commitment of our educators in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow,” the President said.
He further emphasized the importance of “investment in education” by prioritizing funding, infrastructure, teacher training programs, and the certification and licensing of teachers to enhance learning outcomes.
This year’s 73rd Anniversary of the West African Examinations Council and its General Conference is being held in Liberia.
