A total of 43 individuals comprising teachers, examination invigilators, and supervisors have been arrested over alleged involvement in examination malpractice during the recently concluded 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination.
The West African Examinations Council confirmed that the arrests were made across multiple examination centres nationwide following intelligence gathered from whistleblowers and members of the public who reported suspected irregularities during the conduct of the examination.
Speaking in an interview with Citi News on Tuesday, May 12, the Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, John Kapi, indicated that investigations into the alleged malpractice cases are still ongoing and that further details will be communicated after the completion of the script marking process.
He explained that once the marking and review exercise is concluded, the Council will be in a position to identify candidates who may have benefited from any alleged cheating schemes or coordinated malpractice activities.
Despite the reported incidents, WAEC noted that increased public engagement and whistleblowing indicate that ongoing sensitisation and awareness efforts aimed at curbing examination fraud are beginning to yield positive results across the country.
The Council reiterated its firm commitment to maintaining the credibility and integrity of the Basic Education Certificate Examination, warning that any individuals found culpable, including candidates and examination officials, will face strict sanctions in accordance with established examination regulations.
The 2026 BECE remains a key national assessment for junior high school students in Ghana, determining progression into senior high school, with authorities intensifying efforts in recent years to combat malpractice and uphold standards in the education system.
