By Muniratu Akweley Issah, GNA
Accra, May 5, GNA – Six candidates were absent at the start of this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the Ayawaso East Municipality, where authorities reported a smooth and malpractice‑free process.
The absentees comprised three girls from the Nima Cluster and three boys from the Kanda Cluster of schools.
Dr William Tsekpo, Municipal Education Director, told the Ghana News Agency during a monitoring tour of centres that efforts were underway to establish the reasons behind the absenteeism.
“We are yet to find out exactly why they are absent, particularly the girls. We want to know whether it is due to illness, pregnancy, or any other factor,” he said.
Dr Tsekpo noted that aside from the absenteeism, the conduct of candidates on the first day had been encouraging, with no cases of malpractice recorded.
He attributed the orderly process to extensive stakeholder engagement involving supervisors, invigilators, parents and Municipal Assembly officials.
“We emphasised that no one should indulge in malpractice, and from what we have observed so far, the candidates are working independently and confidently,” he said.
Dr Tsekpo said that security had been tightened across all centres, with police personnel deployed to maintain order, while health workers were on standby to attend to candidates experiencing anxiety or health challenges.
“At some centres, military paramedics with an ambulance are also present to provide emergency care if needed,” he said.
Dr Tsekpo confirmed that examination materials were distributed on time, with only a minor delay of about five minutes at one centre, which was quickly adjusted.
He expressed optimism that the municipality would record improved performance at the end of the examinations.
“We are monitoring closely to ensure strict adherence to the rules. We want this year’s examination to be completely free from malpractice so that we can be proud of the results,” he said.
A total of 1,176 candidates, comprising 557 boys and 619 girls, are sitting the examinations in the Ayawaso East Municipality.
The week‑long exercise is being conducted across several public and private school centres.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
Reporter: Muniratu Akweley Issah
[email protected]
