WASSCE Social Studies past questions and answers

The diagram shows a matrilineal descent system where inheritance flows through the mother's line. In this system, property passes from a man to his sister's children (nephews and nieces), not to his own children. This system is practiced by the Akan ethnic group in Ghana (including Ashanti, Fante, Akyem, Bono, etc.). In contrast, patrilineal descent (practiced by Ewe, Ga, Dagomba) traces inheritance through the father's line.

Mediation is the method in which a neutral third party, the mediator, guides the disputing parties through dialogue and helps them find a settlement that both of them accept. The mediator does not impose a decision; the outcome is voluntary and belongs to the parties themselves. In Ghana, chiefs, religious leaders and the National Peace Council often mediate community, chieftaincy and political disputes.

Arbitration also uses a neutral third party, but the arbitrator hears both sides and then makes a decision that is binding on the parties, so the outcome is not a voluntary agreement. Negotiation has no third party at all; the parties talk directly to each other. Litigation takes the dispute to a court of law, where a judge decides and the state enforces the judgment. It is the most formal, slowest and most expensive method, and it usually leaves one side as the loser.

The four methods run from least formal to most formal: negotiation, mediation, arbitration, litigation.

Addressing youth unemployment requires equipping young people with marketable skills, supporting entrepreneurship, and creating enabling environments for job growth.

When children are forced to work to support their families, they lose the opportunity to attend school and develop their potential.

Climate change causes coastal erosion, unpredictable rainfall affecting agriculture, increased drought in the north, and flooding in some areas.

Ignorance about reproductive health often leads to risky behaviors and unintended pregnancies among teenagers.

Tourism brings in foreign currency, creates jobs in hospitality and services, promotes cultural exchange, and supports local businesses and communities.

The National Service Scheme requires graduates of tertiary institutions to serve the nation for one year in various capacities to contribute to national development.