Headmaster Advocates Stricter Measures to Curb Examination Malpractice

Awoshie-anyaa: Mr Frederick Jude Mwinwule, the Headmaster of St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic School, has called for stricter enforcement of measures to eliminate examination malpractice during the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Mwinwule described examination malpractice as a significant threat to quality education and national development. He emphasized that this malpractice undermines academic integrity, deprives students of genuine learning opportunities, and weakens public confidence in educational qualifications. During an end-of-year recognition programme for final-year pupils of the school, themed 'Forming Minds and Touching Hearts for Academic and Moral Excellence,' Mr Mwinwule highlighted the negative impact of examination malpractice on students' academic development, self-confidence, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. He expressed concern that the increasing reliance on leaked examination questions and other forms of cheating had discouraged many students from studying diligently and completing their assignments, leaving them ill-prepared for higher education and the workforce. 'Examination malpractice destroys true learning, erodes the credibility of academic certificates, and produces graduates who lack the knowledge and skills needed for national development,' he stated. Mr Mwinwule urged parents, teachers, school authorities, and government agencies to collaborate in promoting honesty, discipline, and hard work among students. He stressed that safeguarding the integrity of public examinations was essential to maintaining confidence in Ghana's education system. Additionally, Mr Martin Tetteh Nartey, the Chairman of the Board of St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic School, advised pupils to remain focused on their studies and pursue academic excellence through dedication and perseverance. He noted that education is not merely about passing examinations but about acquiring the knowledge, discipline, and values required to build successful careers and contribute meaningfully to national development. Mr Nartey encouraged the pupils to avoid shortcuts to success and instead develop strong study habits that would prepare them for future academic and professional challenges.