Editorial
A second look at examination malpractices
Dear Editor
A revelation from a recent study that cheating or examination malpractices is on the rise is quite worrying.
The study which covered the periods from 2021 and 2023 showed a massive a two per cent increase from 2021 to 10 per cent in 2023.
What is even more alarming is the number of students involved in the act.
According to the report, the over 10,000 students that engaged in the act rose to close to 45,000 in 2023 and identified collusion, bringing of foreign materials and mobile phones into examination halls and impersonation as some of the common forms of malpractice.
This is a menace the West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) has made a lot of noise about not just in the media but through several interactive platforms.
Years in and out, several papers from venues where those suspicions arose have had their papers cancelled and a few arrested and prosecuted. All of this is to serve as a deterrent to others.
But if the problem persists after all of these, then it means there may be something wrong somewhere that the authorities have not averred their minds to.
Much as the authorities identify ways to curb the aforementioned mode of operation, the Ghana Education Service (GES) should also intensify its supervision on the preparations of the school children for the exams.
Considering the numbers involved in the act against the overall numbers registered, they still form a minority of children who may be ill prepared for the exams.
The GES officials from its monitory department should pay unexpected visits to the schools and observe at first hand the kind of preparation the children are given.
After that, we’ll be in a better position to know what actually the problem with the children is.
Samuel Ofoli Kwei,
Asylum Down-Accra
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
