The Head of the Public Affairs Unit of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), John Kapi, has revealed that the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) format is likely to undergo changes to meet Ghana's evolving needs.

Speaking on Citi FM’s Citi Breakfast Show with Bernard Avle, Mr. Kapi assured that all necessary measures are in place to maintain the integrity of the ongoing BECE.

Addressing the potential changes, Mr. Kapi highlighted that the BECE might adapt to the country’s growing population and changing manpower requirements.

"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," he stated.

In related news, the proposed Free SHS bill, which has yet to be presented to parliament, aims to eliminate the BECE as a prerequisite for secondary school admission.

This bill seeks to restructure the education system by detaching junior high school (JHS) from basic school and incorporating it into a six-year secondary education framework.

Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, elaborated that upon the bill's passage, the Senior High School (SHS) certification will become the first formal academic qualification in the country, replacing the BECE certification.

The restructuring will ensure a seamless six-year secondary education, with new institutions accommodating both JHS and SHS students on the same campuses. Existing schools already housing both levels will continue this practice.

Mr. Kapi also called on all stakeholders involved in the BECE to avoid any form of malpractice.

"We have appealed to all the candidates, parents, guardians, teachers, and supervisors. 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 smartwatches or any form of electronic gadget should be brought to the exam hall," he urged.