In a recent interaction with BECE candidates at the St Thomas Aquinas Senior High School in Accra, Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, Deputy Minister of Education, vehemently refuted ongoing reports suggesting the cancellation of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
The Minister emphasized that there was no policy or discussion to terminate the BECE, firmly discrediting the notion.
He reassured the public that the exam, which has been a cornerstone of education for over four decades, remains an essential part of the educational system.
The 2023 BECE commenced on Monday, August 7, and is set to conclude on Friday, August 11.
Reverend Ntim Fordjour, accompanied by Stephen Bamfo, the Greater Accra Director of Education, visited various examination centers to engage with candidates and oversee the smooth progression of the exam.
During the visits, he highlighted the steadfast partnership between the Ministry of Education and the West African Examination Council (WAEC), expressing the commitment to support WAEC in fulfilling its educational mandates.
Rev Ntim Fordjour also acknowledged the critical role that WAEC has played over the years in the development of education in the country.
He mentioned that the government periodically allocates resources to WAEC to ensure its operational efficiency and program execution.
Despite the overall successful execution of the BECE, the Deputy Minister addressed concerns related to isolated incidents of exam malpractice and misconduct at certain examination centers across the nation.
He condemned these actions and assured the public that those found involved in such activities would face appropriate consequences to deter others from similar behavior.
As candidates eagerly await their BECE results, Rev Ntim Fordjour provided encouraging news about available spaces in the more than 900 senior high schools (SHS) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.
He emphasized that once candidates successfully pass the exam, they would have numerous opportunities to continue their education in these institutions.
In conclusion, the Deputy Education Minister's proactive engagement with BECE candidates and the resounding confirmation of the exam's continuity have put to rest any doubts about the future of the BECE.
The government's commitment to quality education, collaboration with WAEC, and zero-tolerance stance on exam misconduct are driving factors in ensuring the integrity and significance of the BECE in Ghana's educational landscape.