Head of the Public Affairs Unit at the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), John Kapi, has indicated that the current format of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) is set to be revised in response to Ghana's changing needs.

In an interview with Bernard Avle on the Citi Breakfast Show on Citi FM, Mr. Kapi emphasized WAEC's readiness for the ongoing BECE, assuring that all necessary measures are in place to maintain exam integrity.

Regarding discussions about potential changes to the exam format, Mr. Kapi noted the possibility of adaptation based on Ghana's growing population and workforce demands.

He stated, “There is always a possibility of changing the format depending on the population and the manpower needs of the country and so it is possible that the exam’s format can change.”

The proposed Free SHS bill, yet to be presented to parliament, aims to abolish the BECE requirement for entry into secondary school. Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum clarified that under this bill, SHS certification would become Ghana's primary academic qualification, replacing the current BECE certification.

Dr. Adutwum highlighted that the education system restructuring would integrate junior high school (JHS) into a six-year secondary education framework, with schools potentially co-locating JHS and SHS students on the same campuses.

Mr. Kapi urged all stakeholders involved in the examination process to refrain from any form of malpractice.

“We have appealed to all the candidates, parents, guardians, teachers, and supervisors, and what we are saying is that we don’t expect the candidates to come to the exam hall with any foreign material and they should do independent work and should not solicit support from anybody within or outside the examination hall. No smart watches or any form of electronic gadget should be brought to the exam hall.”