As the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) kicks off this month, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has issued a stark warning about the persistent and growing trend of examination malpractice in Ghana’s middle belt.
According to data presented at the National Stakeholders Conference on Examination Malpractices, the Bono, Bono East, and Ahafo regions have topped the national charts for exam irregularities from 2021 to 2023 — a worrying trend that WAEC officials say poses a major threat to the integrity of the country’s education system.
“This trend is worrying and calls for urgent intervention,” said Daniel Nii Dodoo, WAEC’s Head of Humanities, who urged a collective national response to stem the tide.
WAEC officials painted a grim picture of the potential long-term impact. Dr. Rosemond Wilson, Head of WAEC Ghana, warned that a culture of cheating could undermine public trust in academic qualifications and lead to the emergence of unqualified professionals in vital sectors like healthcare and education.
“Certificates must reflect hard work and true merit, not dishonest shortcuts,” she emphasised.
WAEC Strengthens Exam Readiness and Oversight
Despite the rising malpractice concerns, WAEC says it is fully prepared for this year’s BECE. According to John Kapi, WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, the Council has undertaken extensive nationwide sensitisation campaigns, targeting candidates, teachers, supervisors, and invigilators.
“We are confident that all stakeholders have been adequately educated and are ready to play their part in ensuring a fair and credible examination process,” Mr. Kapi stated.
WAEC is calling on schools, parents, traditional authorities, and the media to actively join efforts to protect the sanctity of Ghana’s examinations. Officials say a shift in societal attitudes toward academic dishonesty is essential to restoring the value of education.
With the 2025 BECE underway, WAEC’s appeal is clear: the fight against cheating must be national, united, and relentless.
