Eduwatch questions NPP’s plan to abolish BECE for SHS placement

Africa Education Watch (EduWatch) has questioned the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) promise in its manifesto to introduce a Senior High School (SHS) placement assessment system to replace the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

The Executive Director of Education Watch, Mr Kofi Asare in a post sighted by Pretertiary.com described the promise as a step in the right direction however he raised concerns of the unavailability of further details in the 2024 manifesto.

“The New Patriotic Party (NPP) promises in its 2024 manifesto to introduce a new SHS placement assessment system to replace what BECE currently does. Unfortunately, details are unavailable in the manifesto,” the EduWatch official said.

EduWatch questions for NPP’s plan to scrab BECE for SHS placement

1. What problem does replacing BECE for SHS placement assessment seek to solve?

2. What will BECE be replaced with?

3. What is the value addition case?

4. How does it solve the key BECE challenges?

5. What is this new method of assessment? High stakes, aptitude, portfolio assessment?

6. What is the quality assurance case?

7. What is the likely implication of a possible ‘no subject-based external assessment policy’ on student learning attitude?

8. How will this proposal affect the current Computerised Schools Selection And Placement System (CSSPS)?

EduWatch’s questions come after the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia in the 2024 manifesto outlined ways he intends to improve Ghana’s education sector if elected president in the general election.

Speaking at his party’s manifesto launch in Takoradi on Sunday, the Vice-President and leader of the NPP emphasised the critical role these educational initiatives play in the nation’s development and the future of its youth.

Dr Mahamudu Bawumia at the 2024 election manifesto launch noted that his administration would be dedicated to ensuring that every Ghanaian child, regardless of their financial or social background, had access to quality education.