Education Watch boss backs arrests over BECE malpractice

‎The Executive Secretary of Ghana Education Watch, Kofi Asare, has backed the arrest of people involved in cheating during the ongoing Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).‎‎

During the time he was speaking on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Monday, May 4, he said it is good that people “crossing the red lines” are being caught, describing it as necessary to protect the honesty of the exam system.

‎‎His comments come after reports of arrests linked to exam cheating during the just-started BECE exams. ‎‎”It is good that those crossing the red lines are being caught. The Education Minister has warned that students should write their exams knowing that they will pass when they can deliver according to their ability.‎‎

“So if a student decides to ignore those directives and advice and do what they are not supposed to do, it is within the job of the security to catch them,” he said.

‎‎Kofi Asare further urged strict enforcement by invigilators and security personnel to ensure trust and fairness in the BECE process.‎‎ He added that cheating does not only hurt the student who cheats, but also damages the reputation of the entire exam system.

When some candidates cheat and get away with it, honest candidates lose confidence in the process. That is why arrests like these send a strong message to others who might be thinking of trying the same thing. ‎‎He also said invigilators must stay alert at all times. Some officials have been careless in the past, allowing students to bring foreign materials into the hall or exchange answer sheets.

That must stop. Every invigilator must do their job properly, and security personnel must support them fully. ‎‎Mr Asare further noted that parents and guardians also have a role to play. Some parents pressure their children to cheat by demanding impossible grades.

Instead, they should encourage their children to prepare well and write honestly. If everyone does their part, the BECE will become fairer for all candidates across the country.

READ: WAEC confirms five arrests for cheating in ongoing BECE exams