The 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) commenced nationwide on Monday, May 4, 2026, ushering in a crucial phase for thousands of final-year Junior High School students aspiring to gain admission into Senior High Schools and Technical Institutions.

In the Ga West Municipality, the examination began under a calm and well-organized atmosphere across various centres. As part of efforts to encourage and support candidates, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ga West, John Desmond Sowah Nai, together with the Member of Parliament (MP) for Amasaman Constituency, Sedem Kweku Afenyo, visited examination centres at Sarpeiman, including Child Care School and Greater Hope Academy.

The visit aimed to interact with candidates on the first day of the examination and to reassure them of the continued commitment of both the Municipal Assembly and the Parliamentary office to educational development within the municipality.

Addressing the BECE candidates, the MCE for Ga West. Hon. Sowah Nai urged them to remain calm, confident, and focused throughout the examination period. He advised them to read questions carefully before answering and cautioned against any form of examination malpractice. He emphasized that the BECE represents a significant step in the academic journey of every student and expressed confidence in the preparedness of candidates within the municipality. He also commended teachers and parents for their dedication and sacrifices in shaping the academic and moral lives of the students.

Speaking during a monitoring visit to examination centres within the municipality, the Member of Parliament for the Amasaman Constituency, Sedem Kwaku Afenyo, underscored the importance of education in national development. He noted that the future of Ghana lies in the hands of its young people and urged candidates to remain focused and committed to their studies.

The MP also issued a stern warning against examination malpractice, cautioning that any individual caught aiding candidates during the exams would face legal consequences. He encouraged students to rely on their own efforts, highlighting hard work as the true key to success.

Meanwhile, the Municipal Director of Education for Ga West, Mr. Victor Noye Tawiah, expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness demonstrated by candidates across the municipality. According to him, adequate measures had been put in place to ensure a smooth and credible examination process.

He explained that teachers, invigilators, and students had all received the necessary guidance ahead of the exams, contributing to a calm and well-organized environment at the various centres. Mr. Tawiah further commended the students for their dedication and hard work, expressing confidence in their ability to excel in the examinations.

The BECE, a critical milestone in the academic journey of junior high school students, continues to be conducted under strict supervision in the Ga West Municipality, with authorities reaffirming their commitment to maintaining integrity and fairness throughout the process.

Reacting on an issue concerning a fetish priest preventing a candidate from showing up to write her exam, The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Ga West Municipal Assembly, John Desmond Sowah Nai, strongly condemned an incident in which a fetish priest allegedly prevented a Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidate from writing the exam.

Describing the act as unacceptable, the MCE emphasised that education remains a vital pathway to success and must not be hindered under any circumstances. He called on parents, guardians, and teachers to prioritise the moral upbringing of children, stressing that discipline and proper guidance are essential to shaping responsible future leaders.

As part of the visit, the delegation presented snacks and refreshments to the candidates to boost their morale. The gesture was warmly received, with many students expressing appreciation for the encouragement and support shown by the municipal and constituency leadership.

School authorities and teachers at both centres expressed gratitude to the MCE and MP for the visit, noting that such interactions motivate students and reinforce the importance placed on education within the municipality.

Meanwhile, the examination process at the centres remained peaceful and orderly, with invigilators ensuring strict adherence to guidelines set by the West African Examinations Council.

The 2026 BECE is expected to continue throughout the week across the country, with education authorities optimistic of a smooth and successful exercise.

Source: ISD-GWMA