The 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) has officially commenced today, Wednesday, June 11, 2025, across Ghana. This pivotal national assessment marks a significant milestone for over 600,000 students, setting the stage for their transition from basic education to senior high school or technical and vocational institutions.
Record Participation and National Preparedness
This year’s BECE sees a record 603,328 candidates participating—297,250 males and 306,078 females—from 20,395 schools nationwide. The number represents a 5.99% increase from last year’s entry, reflecting both population growth and expanded access to basic education. Additionally, 1,661 private candidates (858 males and 803 females) are registered, a notable 19.49% rise from 2024.
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), in collaboration with the Ghana Education Service (GES), has assured the public that all logistical and security arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth, credible, and fair examination process. Materials and timetables have been dispatched to all examination centres, with a total of 2,237 venues for school candidates and 15 for private candidates, mainly in regional capitals.
Exam Structure and Timetable
The examination will run until Wednesday, June 18, 2025. Each day, candidates will take two subjects: one in the morning at 9:00 AM and another in the afternoon at 1:00 PM. In total, 11 subjects will be examined, with each student typically sitting for an average of nine, including core courses such as English Language, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Ghanaian Language, Religious and Moral Education, Creative Art and Design, and Career Technology.
Calls for Integrity and Goodwill Messages
Education stakeholders, including the Ghana National Education Campaign Coalition (GNECC) and the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), have extended goodwill messages to candidates, commending their resilience and urging them to approach the exams with honesty and confidence. Both organizations, alongside WAEC and GES, have strongly cautioned against examination malpractice, emphasizing that any infractions by candidates, invigilators, or supervisors will attract severe consequences.
Addressing Inequality and Special Needs
While preparations are extensive, concerns remain about digital inequality, particularly in deprived districts. Africa Education Watch (Eduwatch) has highlighted that thousands of candidates, especially in northern regions, face the Computing paper without ever having used a computer due to limited ICT infrastructure. Eduwatch is calling for urgent government intervention to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to digital learning for all students.
WAEC has reiterated that provisions have been made for candidates with special educational needs, ensuring inclusivity and that no child is left behind.
A Milestone for Ghana’s Youth
As the BECE unfolds this week, it stands as a testament to the perseverance of Ghana’s youth and the collective efforts of teachers, parents, and education authorities. Stakeholders encourage candidates to remain disciplined, focused, and optimistic, reminding them that this examination is only one step in their lifelong educational journey.
“Regardless of the outcome, your potential is limitless, and your dreams remain valid. We believe in you and are proud of your achievements so far.” — GNECC1
The nation watches with hope as these young learners take this crucial step toward shaping their futures.
