Four candidates writing the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) at the Accra Girls Senior High School centre have been apprehended for engaging in examination malpractice during a monitoring exercise by officials of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).
The Head of WAEC’s National Office in Accra, Dr Rosemond Wilson, who led the inspection team, described the incident as a reminder of the continuing challenges facing the conduct of public examinations.
She called for stricter vigilance at all examination centres and urged supervisors and invigilators to enforce the rules to protect the integrity of the ongoing BECE.
Dr Wilson said that although a few isolated cases of malpractice had been recorded, the general conduct of the examinations at the centres visited had been smooth and orderly.
According to her, most candidates were writing under good conditions, with proper supervision and compliance with examination guidelines.
She also mentioned a minor logistical challenge involving candidates who required large-print question papers.
Dr Wilson explained that although school authorities had been asked to collect the materials from designated depots before the examination, some failed to do so.
She said the affected candidates, however, were able to continue without major difficulty after confirming that they could read the standard print version.
On inclusivity and candidate welfare, Dr Wilson said WAEC had put in place support measures for pregnant candidates to ensure they are not disadvantaged during the examination period.
She said these arrangements include access to health personnel and flexible support depending on individual needs.
Dr Wilson added that figures on absenteeism and the number of pregnant candidates were still being verified and would be released later.
She reaffirmed WAEC’s commitment to protecting the credibility of its examinations and called on school authorities, parents and candidates to uphold honesty and discipline throughout the exercise.
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