In an exclusive update, Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, has put an end to swirling rumors about changes to the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) format for the year 2024. Contrary to social media speculation, the minister confirmed that the number of subjects to be written in this year’s BECE will remain the same as last year’s.
A recent viral interview with Prince Charles Agyemang-Duah, the Director for Schools and Instruction at the Ghana Education Service (GES), caused a stir. Agyemang-Duah had mentioned a reduction in subjects to five, emphasizing the need for a more meaningful and productive learning experience. However, Dr. Adutwum clarified in a press conference in Accra that there would be no change in the number of BECE subjects.
“We are not changing the number of subjects under the BECE; it is going to be the same,” Dr. Adutwum assured, adding that the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) would release sample questions for the new examination, aligning with the updated curriculum.
Concerns had been raised by stakeholders about the proximity of the examination, scheduled for July 2024, and the absence of details about the arrangements. Dr. Adutwum addressed these concerns, emphasizing the continuity of the existing subject structure.
Moving on to achievements in secondary education, Dr. Adutwum highlighted improvements in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) scores. He shared statistics indicating notable progress in subjects like English Language, Integrated Science, Mathematics, and Social Studies over the years, showcasing the dedication of Ghanaian students and educators.
The minister also shed light on the government’s efforts to combat examination malpractice. By collaborating with the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), the introduction of question serialization has successfully prevented leaks of BECE questions for the past three years.
On the infrastructural front, Dr. Adutwum shared exciting news about the transformation of public basic schools. With support from the Arab Development Bank, new facilities featuring Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) laboratories and libraries are underway. He mentioned the construction of a community basic school in East Legon, Accra, with completion expected by April, ready for the 2024-2025 academic year.
Furthermore, Dr. Adutwum emphasized the reinforcement of the technical section in secondary technical schools, promoting a balance of “hands-on and minds-on” learning. New technical, vocational education, and training (TVET) schools are being established, with existing ones like the National Vocational Training Institutes (NVTIs) receiving essential upgrades.
In line with the President’s TVET transformation agenda, Dr. Adutwum highlighted the expansion of STEM courses in high schools. He revealed that schools, including Accra High School, now offer Engineering Science, and new pathways, such as Aviation and Aerospace, have been introduced, with 12 schools embracing these options in the current academic year.
The era of schools starting without the necessary equipment is now a thing of the past, as exemplified by the Centre of Excellence in TVET Education at Anyinam in the Eastern Region. Dr. Adutwum expressed optimism, stating, “There is a new dawn in the Ghanaian education space,” and emphasized the government’s commitment to providing quality education with a variety of choices between public and private schools.
In conclusion, the 2024 BECE holds promise, maintaining its familiar structure, while ongoing initiatives continue to elevate the standard of education in Ghana. Stay tuned for more updates as the education landscape evolves!
Published By: Justice Donkoh | GESHub.org
