10,184 BECE Graduates Denied Placement in SHS 2024: Reasons and Next Steps for Parents and Students

0,184 BECE Graduates Denied Placement in SHS 2024: Reasons and Solutions for Affected Students

The Ghana Education Service (GES) recently released the 2024 school placement results for Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) graduates, with a significant update impacting over 10,000 students. A total of 10,184 BECE candidates did not receive placements in any Senior High School (SHS) or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institution. Additionally, these students are not eligible for the self-placement module, a first for many candidates each year.

Why Over 10,000 BECE Candidates Were Denied Placement

Several factors contribute to the lack of placements for these students, which can be primarily attributed to withheld results, exam failures in critical subjects, and non-participation in specific exams.

1. Withheld BECE Results by WAEC

The West African Examination Council (WAEC) has withheld results for certain candidates due to alleged examination malpractice. GES states that all candidates with unresolved issues involving withheld results will not receive placement in any school until the investigations are concluded.

2. Failures in Core Subjects

Passing in both English Language and Mathematics remains critical for placement. Students who scored a grade 9 in either of these subjects did not meet the cutoff for automatic placement. Even high-performing candidates who achieved grade 1 in other subjects but scored grade 9 in either Mathematics or English are excluded from the placement list.

3. Non-attendance for Key Subjects

Some students registered for the BECE but were absent for some or all exams, particularly the core subjects. Placement heavily relies on scores in core subjects, and without scores in these essential exams, these students are ineligible for automatic or self-placement.

Options for Unplaced BECE Graduates

Students and their families have limited options if they fall into one of the categories mentioned. Here are suggested steps they can take:

Consider Private Schooling Options: Since they cannot be admitted to public SHS, students have the option of enrolling in private secondary schools, though these institutions may have different academic schedules and tuition requirements.

Wait for WAEC Results Review: If the student’s results were withheld, families may consider waiting until WAEC completes the investigation and releases results. If the results meet placement requirements, GES and the Ministry of Education may consider providing placement options later.

Resit Core Subjects in 2025 BECE: For students who failed in English or Mathematics, resitting these exams in the 2025 BECE may be necessary to meet the placement requirements for public SHS or TVET institutions.

SHS Admission Procedures for Placed Candidates

GES has also provided updates for students who received placement in SHS/TVET institutions. All first-year students are expected to report to their respective schools on November 7, 2024, to commence the 2024-2025 academic year. Registration and orientation will begin on October 30, 2024.

Some SHS schools now offer online admission processes to simplify registration, allowing parents and students to access necessary documents and prospectuses remotely. For schools without online portals, parents are advised to accompany students to the school premises to complete admission procedures in person.

With this information, students, parents, and guardians can take the necessary steps to ensure a smooth transition into their next educational phase. As the Ghana Education Service continues to address placement challenges, staying informed and prepared is essential for a successful academic journey.