Friday, 26 September

Education Ministry probes alleged BECE placement bribery claims

Education
Dr Clament Apaak

The Ministry of Education has launched an investigation into allegations circulating on social media that school placements under the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) system are being sold.

The claims, attributed to one Gertrude Adzo Borklo, alleged that placement into Aburi Girls’ Senior High School costs as much as GH₵15,000.

According to the Ministry, the allegation appears designed to fuel a “false impression” that the Computerised School Placement System (CSSPS) is compromised.

In a statement signed by Deputy Minister of Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, the Ministry described the matter as serious and confirmed that efforts to contact the individual behind the post have been unsuccessful, as her social media account was deactivated shortly after publication.

Authorities have also noted that similar claims are being amplified by anonymous or “ghost” accounts.

The Ministry disclosed that it is collaborating with National Security, the Cyber Security Authority, and other agencies to track down the individuals involved and assist in ongoing investigations.

Reiterating its position, the Ministry stressed that placement under the CSSPS is completely free and warned the public against paying money to anyone for admission into Senior High Schools or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

The Ministry further appealed to the public to report any incidents of bribery or extortion linked to school placements.

It assured that anyone—whether officials or third parties—found culpable would face swift and decisive action.

Dedicated hotlines have also been set up to receive reports: 054 154 8223 (Calls) and 024 490 8957 (WhatsApp).

 

“The integrity and transparency of Ghana’s school placement system must be protected, and we will not allow unscrupulous individuals to undermine this important national exercise,” the statement emphasised.

Source: Classfmonline.com/cecil Mensah