Hundreds of Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates from selected schools in the Central and Western Regions have participated in a Special Aptitude Test organized by the Festive Kids International Foundation at the University of Cape Coast (UCC).
The initiative, which forms part of the Foundation’s vision to develop globally competitive children, is designed to assess candidates’ speed and accuracy in answering BECE-style questions ahead of the national examination in June.
Speaking to ATL FM News, Executive Director of the Festive Kids International Foundation, Dr. Prince Messiah Yeboah Hayford, explained the rationale behind the test, noting that “Examinations have become the main determinant of every child’s future. When they fail, they are unable to progress.”
“Many of these children have challenges answering BECE questions due to a lack of skills. We want to help them meet examiner standards through practice like this aptitude test.”
Dr. Hayford added that the initiative includes a broader BECE Conference Roadshow, bringing in examiners and psychologists to support participants, noting “We have children coming from places like Takoradi, Mfantseman Cluster, and Cape Coast. Psychologists take them through important mental preparedness steps.”
On the sidelines of the event, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Education – Winneba, Professor Jophus Anamuah-Mensah, underscored the importance of exposing students to environments outside the classroom to build their confidence.
“When students are suddenly moved from their familiar classrooms to WAEC centers, they can become disoriented. This initiative helps them calm down and gain the confidence to write exams effectively,” he said.
“We also plan weekly sessions during holidays to offer career guidance and expose them to university life.”
Adding a regulatory perspective, the Deputy Controller of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) in Cape Coast, Mr. Isaac Mawuli Yevu Addison, advised candidates to prepare thoroughly and avoid any form of examination malpractice.
“They should learn hard. Nobody can truly help them by giving them foreign materials, that’s not help; it’s harm,” he warned. “If they cheat and are caught, their papers will be cancelled, and their future jeopardized. They need to believe in themselves and remain calm during the exams.”
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Source: Afote Asomdwoe Laryea/ATLFMNEWS
