📰 “Let Integrity Guide You” – Education Minister Urges BECE Candidates
Description:
Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu calls on BECE candidates to uphold honesty and discipline, warning against examination malpractice while reaffirming government’s commitment to protecting the credibility of Ghana’s education system.
The Minister for Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has urged candidates sitting for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) to make honesty and integrity the foundation of their actions.
During a working visit to the Western North Region, the Minister toured selected examination centres in the Sefwi-Wiawso Municipality and Bodi District to assess the ongoing exams. His visit aimed to gain first-hand insight into the conduct of the examinations while addressing growing concerns over malpractice.
⚠️ Rising Cases of Examination Malpractice
The Minister expressed concern about increasing incidents of exam malpractice, revealing that about 178 candidates were affected last year, leading to the withholding or cancellation of their examination papers.
He emphasized that such actions not only undermine the integrity of the education system but also jeopardize the future of the students involved.
🎓 A Strong Message to Candidates
Addressing the students directly, he underscored the value of character:
“Honesty and integrity define citizenship. Honesty and integrity define patriotism. And honesty and integrity must be the hallmark of your character.”
He further cautioned candidates to avoid any form of cheating, reminding them that their future depends on the decisions they make today.
👩🏫 Warning to Invigilators
The Minister also directed a firm message to examination invigilators, urging them to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and integrity throughout the process.
He disclosed that eight teachers who previously facilitated cheating have been prosecuted and convicted, adding that they would be removed from the payroll of the Ghana Education Service.
“We mean business,” he stressed, signaling a zero-tolerance stance on malpractice.
🇬🇭 Protecting the Future of Education
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, the Minister stated that safeguarding the credibility of national examinations is essential for the country’s future.
He also called on the media to play an active role in monitoring educational infrastructure and supporting transparency within the sector.
The message was clear: integrity is not just a requirement for exams—it is a defining value for responsible citizenship and national development.