Source: Nana Achiaa Aboagye
Ghana’s Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, has announced a significant overhaul of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) placement system, introducing a new policy that will allow candidates to choose their preferred senior high schools only after their results are released.
According to the Minister, the reform is designed to promote a more informed and merit-based selection process. “This policy will ensure a more informed and merit-based selection process,” he stated, explaining that students will now make choices based on their actual performance rather than predictions.
The move comes in response to persistent concerns surrounding the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS), which has been criticised over issues of transparency and fairness.
Highlighting the broader objective of the reform, Mr. Iddrisu noted that the directive is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen discipline, integrity, and accountability within the education system.
He also issued a warning regarding examination eligibility, stressing that only final-year students will be permitted to sit for the BECE. “Any parent or guardian who permits such action will face legal consequences,” he cautioned.
Additionally, the Minister revealed that a portion of placement slots will be reserved for alumni, though further details on the implementation are yet to be provided.
Conclusion
The Ministry of Education says the new measures form part of a wider reform agenda aimed at improving discipline, efficiency, transparency, and fairness across Ghana’s education sector.
Authorities believe the initiatives will enhance access to quality education, ease classroom congestion, and provide better support for students—particularly in underserved communities—ultimately helping to build a more skilled and competitive workforce for national development.
