Government to extend BECE duration to ease pressure on candidates – Haruna Iddrisu
The government is considering a revision of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) timetable, with a proposal to extend the duration from five to eight days. The aim is to reduce pressure on candidates and create more time for adequate preparation between papers.
The Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu, disclosed the proposal during a visit to Aburi Girls Senior High School on Thursday, June 10. He explained that the current Monday-to-Friday structure is demanding, as students often write several papers within a short period, which affects their performance and wellbeing.
Under the proposed arrangement, the BECE would begin on a Wednesday and end the following Wednesday. This would introduce longer gaps between examinations, including a weekend break, allowing candidates more time to revise and approach each paper with better preparation.
He further noted that the Ministry of Education is currently reviewing the proposal, with the Ghana Education Service expected to oversee implementation once approval is granted.
In addition, the Minister highlighted improvements in the Free Senior High School feeding system, stating that the supply of food to schools has become more stable than in previous years. He attributed this development to increased financial backing through reforms associated with the Ghana Education Trust Fund.
According to him, collaboration among GETFund, the Ghana Commodity Exchange, and the National Buffer Stock Company has strengthened food procurement and distribution across senior high schools. He also disclosed that about GH¢4 billion has been allocated this year to support student feeding under the Free SHS programme.
Mr. Iddrisu added that Ghana is awaiting approval from the World Bank Board for a proposed US$300 million education infrastructure project scheduled for consideration on June 16. If approved, the funding will support the upgrading of educational facilities nationwide, including the reclassification of selected schools from Category C to B and from B to A, as well as improvements to existing Category A schools.
He emphasized that the initiative is designed to enhance teaching and learning environments, expand access to quality education, and address infrastructure challenges within the sector.
The Minister concluded by commending the leadership of Aburi Girls Senior High School for their commitment to maintaining academic standards and supporting effective teaching and learning.