NaCCA Clarifies Common Core Programme Subjects for 2024 BECE

The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) clarifies common core programme subjects for 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).  They have clarified issues a clarification regarding the subjects for the upcoming Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in July 2024, amidst misinformation circulating in various media outlets.

Contrary to recent claims, NaCCA confirms that Junior High School (JHS) leavers will be evaluated on a standardized set of subjects aligned with the Common Core Programme (CCP) Curriculum. This curriculum, an integral part of the Standards-Based Curriculum, emphasizes core subjects essential for holistic development.

The CCP mandates all learners to be examined on the following subjects: English Language, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Ghanaian Language, Religious and Moral Education, Creative Arts, Career Technology, Computing, French, and Arabic. There are no optional subjects under the CCP Curriculum.

It’s imperative to highlight that Ghanaian Language subjects will be offered based on school capacity, with learners tested on their proficiency in their respective mother tongues. This inclusion aims to promote indigenous languages and foster a sense of national identity among learners.

NaCCA urges stakeholders to rely on official channels such as the Ministry of Education, the NaCCA website, and social media platforms for accurate information regarding educational policies, including the CCP Curriculum.

Currently, several education experts have voiced their disappointment regarding a policy that will render the study and writing of Ghanaian languages optional at the basic school level.

They argue that this decision by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NACCA) could diminish interest in studying local languages, which have historically been mandatory from basic to junior high school levels.

Studying Ghanaian languages exposes students to the history and culture of various tribes, fostering a deeper understanding of their roots, instilling pride in cultural heritage, and promoting the values of Ghanaian communities.

Until now, students have been examined in these languages at the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). However, starting in 2024, Ghanaian language study will become optional, similar to French and Arabic.

READ ALSO: BECE 2024 Registration Date And Deadline

Many educationists, including Professor Adams Bodomo of the University of Vienna and Dr. Peter Partey-Anti of the Institute for Education Studies, have expressed disappointment and urged reconsideration of the policy. They argue that making Ghanaian languages optional undermines cultural preservation and identity.

Professor Clement Appah of the University of Ghana believes this policy should not be implemented, as it could lead to a decline in interest and proficiency in Ghanaian languages. He called upon the Education Committee of Parliament to intervene and ensure the preservation of indigenous languages in the educational system.