The 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) has come to an end for the majority of its 560,000 candidates, wrapping up a week marred by reports of exam malpractice.
The exam, which saw incidents of malpractice throughout the week, led to the arrest of 18 invigilators across various regions for allegedly aiding candidates and breaking exam rules.
In response to these challenges, the West African Examination Council (WAEC) implemented new regulations for the examination, including a ban on supervisors from bringing mobile phones to the examination centres.
Despite these measures, some invigilators still violated the rules, with some even attempting to answer questions for candidates.
Deputy Education Minister, Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, reassured the public that measures are in place to identify and discipline teachers involved in the malpractice.
Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, mentioned that WAEC is contemplating hiring its own invigilators following the incidents, emphasizing that any form of examination malpractice undermines the council’s ability to properly assess a candidate’s potential.
While today marks the end for the majority of candidates, those who studied Arabic still have a paper to write. Students expressed relief and excitement at completing their Junior High School education.
Reflecting on the exam process, some invigilators noted that Mathematics and Science posed challenges for the students but were manageable. Overall, the process was described as smooth and successful, with minor challenges in subjects like Creative Arts and Design due to the new curriculum.
The successful completion of the 2024 BECE is a significant milestone for these students, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of a new one in their educational journey.
