By Erewunmi Peace

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has reportedly introduced new subject combinations for students ahead of the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

According to reports by PM News, The Nation, and Legit.ng, the new subject arrangement bars students in the Science and Art departments from offering Economics, a subject that has traditionally been open to candidates across all fields.

Under the alleged new rule, only students in the Business or Commercial departments will be allowed to register for Economics during the 2026 WASSCE. The development has sparked widespread debate among students, teachers, and education stakeholders nationwide.

However, checks on the official WAEC Nigeria website show no formal announcement confirming the new subject combinations. As of the time of this report, Economics remains listed among the approved subjects for candidates on WAEC’s registration portal.

Education analysts have described the alleged policy as “controversial,” warning that it could limit students’ flexibility in selecting courses relevant to future university programs.

WAEC is yet to issue an official statement addressing the reports. Stakeholders are therefore advised to await an official update from the examination body before making changes to their subject registration plans.

On social media, reactions have been mixed. Some users applauded the move as a way to streamline academic focus, while others criticized it as unnecessary and confusing for students already preparing for the next WASSCE cycle.