The government is considering a major adjustment to the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) timetable, with plans to extend the examination period from five days to eight days in a bid to reduce stress on candidates and improve their preparation time.

Education Minister, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, announced the proposal during a visit to Aburi Girls Senior High School on Thursday, June 10, where he acknowledged concerns about the intensity of the current examination schedule.

According to the Minister, the existing Monday-to-Friday format places significant pressure on students, particularly when they are required to sit multiple papers within a short period.

To address the challenge, he said the Ministry of Education is reviewing the examination calendar to allow candidates more time between papers.

Under the proposed arrangement, the BECE would commence on a Wednesday and conclude on the following Wednesday, creating intervals that would enable students to revise adequately before subsequent examinations.

Mr. Iddrisu explained that the revised structure would include a weekend break during the examination period, providing candidates with additional time to prepare for core subjects and other papers.

He disclosed that the Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) would supervise the implementation of the new timetable once approved.

The Education Minister also indicated that senior high schools are currently experiencing a more stable food supply situation compared to previous years.

He attributed the improvement to increased financial support made possible through reforms to the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), which have strengthened funding for the Free Senior High School programme.

According to him, collaboration between GETFund, the Ghana Commodity Exchange and the National Buffer Stock Company has enhanced the procurement and distribution of food to schools across the country.

Mr. Iddrisu revealed that government has earmarked GH¢4 billion this year to support student feeding under the Free SHS programme, describing it as a significant investment in student welfare.

The Minister further announced that Ghana is awaiting approval from the World Bank for a major infrastructure development initiative aimed at improving educational facilities nationwide.

He disclosed that the World Bank Board is expected to consider the proposal on June 16.

If approved, the programme will provide approximately US$300 million for the expansion and upgrading of educational infrastructure across the country.

As part of the initiative, government plans to elevate 30 Category C schools to Category B status and upgrade 20 Category B schools to Category A, while also investing in the development of existing Category A institutions.

Mr. Iddrisu said the planned upgrades are intended to improve learning environments, expand access to quality education and address infrastructure deficits within the sector.

The Minister concluded his visit by commending the headmistress of Aburi Girls Senior High School for her leadership and commitment to the growth of the institution.

He noted that effective school leadership remains critical to improving educational standards and ensuring a conducive environment for teaching and learning.

The proposed reforms form part of broader government efforts to strengthen Ghana's education system through improved student welfare, expanded infrastructure and enhanced academic outcomes.