2023 BECE Assured: Every Candidate Eligible for Free SHS Placement – Deputy Education Minister

Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, the Deputy Minister of Education, has assured the public that there is ample capacity to accommodate the entire cohort of 600,714 candidates participating in this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) across the expansive network of over 900 Senior High Schools (SHS) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

The central prerequisite for candidates, as emphasized by Rev. Ntim Fordjour, remains the successful completion of the BECE, enabling them to access the privileges offered by the flagship senior high school initiative.

Rev. Ntim Fordjour conveyed this announcement while engaging with BECE candidates at the St. Thomas Aquinas Senior High School in Accra.

Together with Mr. Stephen Bamfo, the Director of Education for the Greater Accra region, the Deputy Minister assured candidates of the government’s steadfast dedication to providing substantial support for their educational pursuits.

In his address, Rev. Ntim Fordjour encouraged aspiring scholars to diligently pursue their educational aspirations, shedding light on the remarkable opportunities facilitated by the Free Senior High School (FSHS) and Free Technical and Vocational Education and Training (FTVET) programs.

He underscored this by stating, “Devote your efforts to harnessing the benefits of this forward-thinking policy, which holds the power to shape your future ambitions.”

As the Member of Parliament for Assin South, Rev. Ntim Fordjour also cautioned candidates against resorting to external aid, emphasizing the uniqueness of each candidate’s question set despite sharing the same examination space.

After overseeing activities at the examination center, the Deputy Minister addressed prevailing speculations concerning the potential discontinuation of the BECE.

He categorically dispelled such notions, asserting, “There are no ongoing discussions or plans to halt the BECE, both in the present and in the foreseeable future. Disregard these misconceptions.”

Rev. Ntim Fordjour applauded the collaborative efforts of the West African Examination Council (WAEC) in advancing Ghana’s educational landscape.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to aiding WAEC in its mission and endeavors to fulfill educational responsibilities.

Reflecting on WAEC’s invaluable contributions over time, Rev. Ntim Fordjour elaborated, “We periodically extend resources to them in alignment with their requirements and ongoing initiatives.”

Expressing his concern about isolated instances of misconduct reported at specific examination centers nationwide, the Deputy Minister deplored such actions as unfortunate.

He assured that stringent measures would be taken against those involved to serve as a deterrent against future malpractices.

SOURCE: Coverghana.com.gh