Ahafo Ano South-West: Five pregnant candidates and one lactating mother are among the 1,450 students writing the ongoing Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the Ahafo Ano South-West District of the Ashanti Region. The candidates, drawn from 49 public and three private schools, are taking the exams at five designated centres: Mpasaso Basic School, Wioso Basic School, and Mankranso Senior High School Centres A, B, and C. Out of the total number, 786 are males and 664 are females, with 16 recorded absentees.

According to Ghana News Agency, as part of efforts to encourage and motivate the candidates, the District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr. Abubakar Sedik, has toured the examination centres to encourage the candidates. During the visit, he announced a scholarship package for any candidate who scores an aggregate of six, promising full sponsorship through to the tertiary level. He said the initiative was aimed at promoting academic excellence and inspiring seriousness among learners in the district.

Mr. Sedik urged the candidates to give their best, remain focused, and build the necessary confidence to succeed. He encouraged them to excel not just for personal gain, but also to make their families, communities, and the entire district proud.

Mr. Justin Kwasi Gbortor, the District Director of Education, cautioned them against all forms of examination malpractices, emphasizing the importance of integrity and independent thinking. He assured them that the knowledge acquired throughout their academic journey was sufficient to help them succeed without resorting to cheating or external assistance.

Mr. Gbortor also reminded invigilators of the serious consequences of breaching examination regulations. He stressed the need for professionalism and integrity to avoid any legal or disciplinary actions that could jeopardize their careers.