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More than 620,000 candidates across Ghana are set to begin the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) as authorities introduce stricter measures to combat examination malpractice.
The nationwide examination, organised by the West African Examinations Council, officially begins on Monday, May 4, and is scheduled to run until May 11.
In total, 620,141 candidates from 20,395 schools are expected to participate in this year’s examination, making it one of the largest nationwide academic assessments in the country.
WAEC has emphasised its commitment to ensuring a credible and transparent examination process, warning candidates to strictly adhere to all rules and regulations throughout the period.
According to officials, any form of malpractice will be met with severe sanctions.
“Candidates found engaging in any form of malpractice will face severe sanctions,” an official stated, highlighting the council’s zero-tolerance policy.
Students have been specifically warned against carrying prohibited items into examination halls, particularly mobile phones, which have been a major concern in past incidents of cheating.
WAEC further cautioned candidates to maintain discipline and respect towards supervisors and invigilators, stressing that any form of misconduct, including assault or disruption, could lead to serious consequences.
The council noted that ensuring order and compliance is critical to preserving the integrity of the examination and protecting the value of certificates awarded.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Education Service has also taken steps to support a smooth and credible examination process.
Director-General Ernest Kofi Davis revealed that officials previously implicated in examination malpractice cases have been barred from participating in this year’s exercise.
This move is part of broader efforts to restore public confidence in the conduct of national examinations and prevent any recurrence of irregularities.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the stricter measures, noting that maintaining fairness in the examination process is essential for the credibility of Ghana’s education system.
The BECE serves as a critical milestone for junior high school students, determining their placement into senior high schools across the country.
For many candidates, the examination represents the culmination of years of academic preparation and a key step toward their future educational paths.
Authorities have therefore urged candidates to focus on their studies, remain calm, and approach the examination with honesty and integrity.
As the exams begin, parents, teachers, and guardians are also expected to play a supportive role by encouraging candidates and ensuring they adhere to the rules.
With heightened monitoring and stricter enforcement in place, WAEC and GES remain confident that the 2026 BECE will be conducted smoothly and without major incidents.
