Ghana Education Ministry Warns of Strict Action Over BECE Malpractice

Key facts

• on the first day of the 2026 BECE.
• Incidents occurred in the Central, Bono, and Ashanti regions.
• Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu issued a firm warning against malpractice.
• Approximately 620,000 students are registered for the 2026 BECE.
• Eight individuals convicted and sentenced for malpractice in the previous year.
• 32 others from last year's exams are undergoing legal proceedings.
• The Ministry is collaborating with WAEC and security agencies to monitor 2,303 centers.

Exam Integrity Under Threat as Malpractice Cases Emerge

The ongoing 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in of malpractice, prompting a stern warning from the Ministry of Education. Seven incidents were recorded on the very first day of the exams, highlighting persistent challenges in maintaining the integrity of this crucial assessment. The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) confirmed the initial cases, which involved teachers and invigilators across the Central, Bono, and Ashanti regions. These early occurrences cast a shadow over the examination period, which sees approximately 620,000 students participating. Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has unequivocally stated that the credibility of the BECE rests on all stakeholders. He emphasized that strict adherence to examination rules is paramount and that any deviation will be met with severe repercussions.

Perpetrators Labelled 'Enemies of the State'

The Ministry of Education has not shied away from condemning those involved in examination malpractice, labelling them as 'enemies of the state.' This strong rhetoric underscores the government's resolve to combat dishonest practices that undermine the educational system. Individuals found facilitating or ignoring malpractice face a range of disciplinary actions. These can include interdiction, dismissal from service, and even potential prosecution. The consequences for candidates caught cheating, whether through unauthorized materials or collusion, are equally severe, with the possibility of their results being cancelled. The Ministry pointed to last year's enforcement efforts as a testament to its commitment. Out of 40 individuals apprehended for their roles in examination malpractice, eight have already been convicted and sentenced. Their jobs have been terminated, and they are being removed from the Ghana Education Service payroll. An additional 32 cases are still navigating the legal system.

Stakeholders Urged to Uphold Vigilance and Integrity

The Frimpong-Manso Institute (FMI) has also weighed in on the matter, extending well wishes to the 620,000 students taking the 2026 BECE while cautioning against the rising tide of malpractice. The Institute described the examination period as a critical juncture in the academic lives of the candidates. FMI stressed the importance of a conducive learning environment at the basic education level, urging government, parents, teachers, and other stakeholders to collaborate. This, they believe, will ensure that all students, irrespective of their background or location, have an equal opportunity to succeed. The Institute expressed concern over the increasing normalization of examination malpractices, warning that such acts erode the credibility of Ghana's education system and provide a distorted measure of student performance. They called on invigilators, supervisors, and security personnel to remain vigilant and decisively address any form of malpractice.

Enhanced Monitoring Across 2,303 Examination Centres

As the examinations continue across the nation, the Ministry of Education is intensifying its efforts to ensure a fair and secure process. Collaboration with the Ghana Education Service (GES), WAEC, and various security agencies is key to this strategy. Enhanced monitoring is being implemented across all 2,303 examination centers nationwide. The aim is to detect and prevent any attempts to compromise the integrity of the BECE. Additional measures have been put in place to bolster security and oversight, reflecting the seriousness with which the Ministry views any infraction of examination rules. The focus remains on safeguarding the examination's credibility and ensuring that results accurately reflect students' capabilities.

A Critical Juncture for Ghana's Educational Future

The BECE represents a foundational step in a student's educational journey, and its integrity is paramount. The Ministry's firm stance and the involvement of various bodies underscore the national importance placed on fair assessment. While the immediate focus is on the ongoing examination, the underlying issues of malpractice require sustained attention. The Ministry's commitment to prosecuting offenders and removing them from the payroll signals a long-term strategy to deter future misconduct. Ultimately, the success of the BECE hinges on the collective commitment of all participants to uphold ethical standards. The Ministry's warning serves as a stark reminder that the pursuit of academic success must be grounded in honesty and integrity, lest the very foundations of Ghana's educational system be compromised.

The bottom line

• on the first day of Ghana's 2026 BECE.
• Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has warned that perpetrators will face severe consequences, including prosecution.
• Last year, eight individuals were convicted and sentenced for examination malpractice.
• Approximately 620,000 students are sitting for the 2026 BECE across 2,303 centers.
• The Ministry is working with WAEC and security agencies to enhance monitoring and prevent cheating.
• The Frimpong-Manso Institute has urged all stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the examination.