- BECE format may change due to population growth.
- Free SHS bill to replace BECE with SHS certification.
- Education system to be restructured into a 6-year framework.
- WAEC urges stakeholders to prevent exam malpractice.
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced that the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) format is likely to change in response to Ghana’s growing population and manpower needs. John Kapi, Head of the Public Affairs Unit of WAEC, revealed that the council has put in place measures to ensure the integrity of the exam, despite the potential changes.
The BECE format has been a topic of debate, with some calling for its revision to meet the country’s evolving needs. Mr. Kapi acknowledged that changes are possible, depending on the population and manpower needs of Ghana.
The proposed Free SHS bill, which is yet to be laid before parliament, aims to eliminate the BECE as a requirement for entering secondary school. Instead, the bill seeks to restructure the education system by separating junior high school (JHS) from basic school and integrating it into a six-year secondary education framework.
Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, the Minister of Education, explained that upon passing the bill, SHS certification will become the first formal academic qualification in the country, replacing the current BECE certification. The restructuring aims to ensure a continuous six-year secondary education, with new schools co-locating JHS and SHS students on the same campuses. Existing schools with both JHS and SHS students will continue this practice.
Mr. Kapi appealed to all stakeholders in the exam to desist from all forms of malpractice, emphasizing the importance of independent work and non-solicitation of support from anyone within or outside the examination hall. Candidates have been warned not to bring any foreign materials, smartwatches, or electronic gadgets to the exam hall, as these can compromise the integrity of the exam.
WAEC has assured the public that the necessary measures have been put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the exam, despite the potential changes to the format. The council has urged all stakeholders to cooperate and support the efforts to maintain the integrity of the exam, which is a crucial milestone in the education system of Ghana.
