Briphildon Foundation advises 2025 BECE candidates to shun examination malpractice

As final-year junior high school students prepare for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), Bright Philip Donkor, CEO of the Briphildon Foundation, has important advice. He urged candidates to avoid examination malpractice and maintain integrity.

On May 29, 2025, his foundation supported BECE candidates at Dzorwulu Junior High School. They provided mathematical sets, pens, stationery, and toiletries like toilet rolls. Mr. Donkor highlighted the importance of honesty and hard work.

He said these values are more rewarding than shortcuts to success. "I understand exam pressure," he told students. "But resist the temptation to cheat. Your future is too important for dishonesty."

His comments come amid rising concerns about examination malpractice in education. The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) recently warned that this issue poses a national security threat. Reported cases of malpractice have surged, especially at the senior high school level.

In four years, withheld subject results in WASSCE increased from 3,235 in 2020 to over 522,000 in 2024. Similarly, cancelled subject results rose from 10,496 to nearly 39,000 during this time.

"These numbers represent real lives and dreams," he stated. Cheating weakens our education system and democracy as well. He expressed concern that cheating benefits those with access to leaked questions or influence over officials.

"This is deeply unfair," he added. "What message does it send when dishonesty seems rewarded?" He noted that this creates a gap between privileged and less privileged students.

Mr. Donkor pointed out that causes of this trend extend beyond students alone. Parental pressure and lapses in supervision also play a role. In some cases, educators and invigilators contribute by failing to uphold integrity.

"It's no secret that some adults are part of the problem," he said. Teachers may ignore issues while invigilators accept bribes. This failure affects our children negatively.

Despite these challenges, the Briphildon Foundation believes change is possible. Mr. Donkor called on the Ministry of Education and WAEC to implement reforms against cheating effectively.

He suggested serializing exam papers and using trained independent invigilators as solutions. He also urged law enforcement agencies to act against those leaking exam materials or running rogue websites.

"This fight can't be left to WAEC alone," he emphasized. Parents, teachers, religious leaders, and community heads must all participate in addressing this issue.

"Let’s talk to our children about doing what’s right," he said. "You are capable and prepared for success without cheating."

He encouraged students: "Walk into that exam room with your head held high." Ghana supports you!