The 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) began on Wednesday, June 11, with over 600,000 students participating across Ghana. However, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has confirmed that 10 individuals have already been arrested for engaging in various forms of examination malpractice.
According to WAEC, the culprits, who include supervisors, invigilators, and civilians, were caught with unauthorized materials, mobile phones, and even photocopied answer sheets.
They have since been handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution. Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show, WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, stressed the severity of the offenses, describing them as criminal acts under WAEC regulations.
“One of the supervisors used a mobile phone to take smart shots of the exam questions and posted them online,” Kapi revealed. “Six invigilators were also found with images of exam papers on their phones. A woman claiming to be a fashion designer had photocopied answers meant for candidates, and we even identified a student nurse and a school administrator among the culprits.”
Mr. Kapi praised the swift action of WAEC officials and monitors, who acted promptly to apprehend the offenders. He noted that reports from more exam centres are still being compiled, and additional arrests may follow.
The Council is also working closely with the National Investigations Bureau and the Ghana Education Service (GES) to deploy personnel in known malpractice hotspots to deter further infractions.
WAEC has reiterated that such illegal acts could lead to the cancellation or withholding of candidates’ results. With heightened surveillance, increased personnel presence, and cooperation with law enforcement, the Council is determined to uphold the integrity of the 2025 BECE.
