John Kapi, head of the Public Affairs Unit at the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), has indicated that the current format of Ghana’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) will likely undergo revisions in response to evolving national needs.
In an interview with Bernard Avle on Citi FM’s Citi Breakfast Show, Mr. Kapi reaffirmed WAEC’s pivotal role in the ongoing BECE, emphasizing the stringent measures in place to uphold exam integrity. This reassurance is crucial in the face of impending changes.
Addressing ongoing discussions about potential reforms, Mr. Kapi acknowledged the possibility of adapting the exam format to accommodate Ghana’s growing population and evolving workforce demands.
“The format of the exam can change depending on the population and the manpower requirements of the country,” Mr. Kapi stated.
Recent discussions have also centred around the proposed Free SHS bill, pending parliamentary review.
This bill, which aims to abolish BECE as a prerequisite for secondary school admission, proposes a restructuring of Ghana’s education system to integrate junior high school (JHS) into a unified six-year secondary education framework. The potential benefits of this bill are significant, offering a more streamlined and comprehensive education system.
Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, the Minister of Education, highlighted that Senior High School (SHS) certification would become the primary academic qualification, superseding BECE certification upon the bill’s passage.
Under the proposed reforms, schools will transition to a model where JHS and SHS students are colocated on the same campuses, promoting a seamless educational continuum.
Mr. Kapi also appealed to all stakeholders involved in the exam process to uphold the highest standards of integrity, urging candidates, parents, guardians, teachers, and supervisors to ensure compliance with exam regulations. This commitment is a testament to the integrity of the BECE.
“We expect candidates to enter the exam hall without any unauthorized materials and to conduct themselves independently,” Mr Kapi emphasized, stressing the prohibition of smartwatches and electronic devices during exams.
The discussions underscore ongoing efforts to adapt Ghana’s education system to effectively meet current challenges and future demands, with WAEC poised to play a pivotal role in these reforms.
