Editorial
WASSCE results heart-warming!
In view of the importance of education within the context of the huge sums of money government has spent on the Free Senior High School (SHS), it is heartwarming to note that the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) performance has been the best since 2015, according to West African Examination Council report.
It is also gratifying that the students have not disappointed their parents and the people of Ghana, repaying the trust for the heavy investment made in their education.
It is clear that the candidates have put up a gleaming performance, especially, when the current management of education did not place any “cut-off point” on grades Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates must obtain to pursue SHS education.
In previous years, aggregate 30 was fixed as the cut-off point. This shows that when given the chance and provided with the requisite support, as many students as possible can perform well in exams.
The performance has been improved greatly because of the numerous interventions rolled out by government. To begin with, the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, removed obstacles such as school fees and this gave them the peace of mind to concentrate on their studies.
Again, the supply of free core text books to every student as well as free uniforms to both day and boarding students also contributed positively to their good performance.
Ghanaians are aware of the special training organised for Science and Mathematics tutors together with the provision of the Chief Examiner’s Report to schools to serve as a guide for the students.
All these helped to bring improvement in the performance of the students.
The Spectator is happy about this development and urges the government to continue with this policy of comprehensive support for education – not only for the core subjects, but for the non-core subjects so that there will be continuous improvement in the years ahead.
The percentage of candidates who obtained A1 to C6 in the core subjects constituted more than 50 per cent. In English language, the percentage score was 57.34 per cent in 2020, while Integrated Science in the same year, is 52.53 per cent.
Similarly, percentage score in Mathematics is 65.71 per cent, while it is 64.31 per cent in Social Studies. This shows that the average performance of the candidates for this year is the best compared with results within the past six years.
We will continue to urge our students not to rest on their oars but study harder so as to perform better in the years ahead.
The Spectator also congratulates all teaching and non-teaching staff as well as Headmasters and management of our schools on their hard work and appeal to them to continue the good work so that as a country, Ghana can place itself higher on the educational ladder.
Similarly, The Spectator lauds government on the good work done in supporting education in the manner it has done.
We doff our hats off for all those who have helped to promote this positive agenda.
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
