The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has officially released the provisional results for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) 2024. Unfortunately, this year’s results have been marked by significant absenteeism and examination malpractice. Over 3,845 candidates were absent from the examination, and the results of 41 candidates have been cancelled for cheating.

The BECE, typically held in June, is the gateway for students seeking admission to senior high schools across Ghana. It covers a broad range of subjects, including Mathematics, English Language, Science, Social Studies, and Religious and Moral Education. For the 2024 edition, the exam was conducted from June 3rd to 7th across 2,123 centers, with 569,236 students participating—282,703 males and 286,533 females.

Absenteeism and Malpractice Concerns

This year saw a notable increase in absenteeism, with 3,845 candidates missing the exams, a significant rise compared to previous years. Alongside this, a widespread cheating scandal has cast a shadow over the integrity of the results. WAEC reported that 41 school candidates and 1 private candidate had their entire results cancelled due to involvement in examination malpractice.

In response to this, WAEC has taken stringent measures to combat cheating, including the installation of CCTV cameras in examination halls and the introduction of biometric verification for candidates. Despite these efforts, malpractice remains an issue, which raises concerns about the integrity of the examination process.

WAEC’s Actions and Investigations

According to the official statement from WAEC, the council has taken serious disciplinary actions against candidates involved in malpractice:

  • 377 school candidates and 3 private candidates had specific subject results cancelled for bringing unauthorized materials into the examination halls or colluding with other candidates.
  • 41 school candidates and 1 private candidate had their entire results cancelled for severe breaches of exam regulations.
  • 33 school candidates and 3 private candidates have had their results withheld pending further investigations.
  • Results from 149 schools have been withheld due to reported irregularities, with their final status dependent on the outcome of investigations.

WAEC has also cautioned stakeholders to be wary of fraudsters who may attempt to exploit the situation by offering to upgrade results for a fee. The council reassures the public that BECE results are secure and authentic, and any such promises are fraudulent.

While WAEC continues to enforce strict measures to uphold the integrity of the examination, the issue of cheating remains a major concern for the future of the BECE and the education system in general.