Dr. Barnabas Amanfo cautions against “do or die” mentality for BECE candidates
Dr. Barnabas Amanfo, a senior education consultant, has urged Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates to take their upcoming exams seriously, while avoiding unnecessary pressure and anxiety.
Speaking on Kumasi-based Kessben FM, Dr. Amanfo described the BECE as a “high-stakes examination,” but cautioned that it should not be approached with a “do or die” mindset.
“The BECE is undeniably a significant step in a student’s academic journey,” Dr. Amanfo stated. “It determines placement into senior high schools and can shape future opportunities. However, it should not become a source of unbearable stress or desperation for candidates or their families.”
The BECE, organized by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), is a crucial exam for final-year Junior High School students across Ghana. Performance in the exam plays a central role in determining placement into senior high schools under the Computerized School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS).
Dr. Amanfo acknowledged the pressure surrounding the exam, calling it a “high-stakes” test due to its implications for students’ educational progression. “We need to recognize the weight the BECE carries. But the narrative that it is the ‘end-all, be-all’ for students must be corrected,” he emphasized.
According to Dr. Amanfo, parents, teachers, and guardians must focus on building students’ confidence rather than instilling fear. “When we overhype the exam or suggest that failing it is the end of life, we create a toxic environment that hampers performance,” he noted.
He encouraged students to remain disciplined in their preparations, get enough rest, and seek clarification on topics they find difficult. “Preparation is key, but balance is essential. Students should know that their worth is not solely defined by their exam results.”
Dr. Amanfo also warned against the temptation of exam malpractice, stressing that the “do or die” mentality can push students into unethical behavior. “Integrity in education starts with how we face exams. Shortcuts will not help in the long run,” he said.
He called on educational authorities, civil society organizations, and the media to help reshape the public discourse around national examinations. “We must collectively remove the fear-based approach and replace it with encouragement, mentorship, and support,” he concluded.
WATCH VIDEO BELOW:
