Key Takeaways
- The BECE has largely lost its original purpose following the introduction of the Free Senior High School policy.
- The examination now serves mainly as a tool for placing students into senior high schools rather than determining whether they qualify to continue their education.
- Africa Education Watch suggests reconsidering the purpose and structure of the BECE in light of the changes brought about by the Free SHS policy.
The Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) has been a cornerstone of Ghana's education system, serving as a crucial milestone in determining students' access to secondary education. However, with the introduction of the Free Senior High School (Free SHS) policy in 2017/2018, the role of the BECE has undergone significant changes.
Speaking on Accra-based Citi FM, Executive Director of Africa Education Watch, Kofi Asare, questioned the continued relevance of the BECE. He noted that prior to the introduction of Free SHS, students had to attain a particular aggregate to qualify for admission into secondary school, and their BECE results also influenced the school to which they were placed.
Background & Context
The BECE has been in existence since 1993, serving as a gateway for students to access secondary education. However, with the introduction of Free SHS, the policy has shifted the focus from access to equity, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to pursue secondary education regardless of their socio-economic background.
According to Mr. Asare, the BECE previously played a more significant role in determining access to secondary education. The examination served as a gatekeeper, determining who qualified for placement into secondary school and which school they were placed in.
Key Findings
An analysis of BECE results over the years reveals that since the introduction of Free SHS, virtually all BECE candidates have qualified for placement into senior high school. This has rendered the examination ineffective in determining access to secondary education.
Mr. Asare suggested that Ghana may need to reconsider the purpose and structure of the BECE in light of the changes brought about by the Free SHS policy. He noted that the examination now serves mainly as a tool for placement, rather than determining whether students qualify to continue their education.
Broader Implications
The implications of the BECE's evolving role are far-reaching. The examination's loss of relevance may have significant consequences for the education system, particularly in terms of accountability and resource allocation.
Africa Education Watch emphasizes the need for a thorough review of the BECE's purpose and structure to ensure that it remains relevant and effective in achieving its intended objectives.
Looking Ahead
The Ministry of Education and relevant stakeholders must engage in a critical examination of the BECE's role in Ghana's education system. This will involve assessing the examination's effectiveness in achieving its intended objectives and exploring alternative assessment methods that better align with the country's education policy.
The outcomes of this review will have significant implications for the future of education in Ghana, and Africa Education Watch is committed to working with stakeholders to ensure that the BECE remains an effective tool for promoting quality education in the country.
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