The Ghana Education Service (GES) has refuted claims suggesting that the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) for junior high school students will be abolished. GES clarified that it is transitioning from the previous objectives-based curriculum to a standard-based curriculum, which may result in changes to the BECE format.
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During a stakeholder engagement on the grading system organized by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Dr. Eric Nkansah, the Director General of GES, emphasized that reports regarding the cancellation of the BECE are inaccurate.
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He stated, "We are not canceling the BECE. What is causing confusion among some individuals is that we are transitioning from the old objectives-based curriculum to the standards-based curriculum. However, this does not imply that students following the standards-based curriculum will not take the BECE. They will still take the exam, but the nature and format might undergo some modifications. Therefore, please refrain from spreading the notion that we are eliminating the BECE."
The BECE is a standardized examination administered by WAEC and serves as a crucial assessment for junior high school graduates preparing to enter senior high school.
By implementing the standards-based curriculum, the GES aims to align the education system with contemporary educational practices and international standards. This transition recognizes the need for a curriculum that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a holistic understanding of subjects. As a result, the format and structure of the BECE may be adjusted to better reflect the competencies and knowledge acquired by students under the standards-based curriculum.
It is important to note that despite the anticipated modifications, the BECE remains an integral part of the educational process in Ghana. The examination serves as a significant milestone for students transitioning from junior high school to senior high school, enabling them to demonstrate their academic proficiency and readiness for further education.
