BECE: Candidates put money in scripts to influence examiners – EduWatch

The Executive Director of Africa Education Watch (EduWatch), Kofi Asare, has disclosed that some candidates resort to placing money inside their examination scripts in an attempt to influence examiners during the marking process.

He said the practice is among the various methods some candidates use in the hope of gaining favour from markers and improving their examination outcomes.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Tuesday, August 4, Asare explained that such attempts can only succeed if an examiner compromises professional standards, noting that examiners who uphold integrity would report such acts rather than accept the money.

“In some instances, candidates put money in the examination scripts. They put money in the script for whoever is going to mark it,” he said.

The EduWatch Executive Director also raised concerns about inadequate investment in examination monitoring and surveillance systems, arguing that stronger mechanisms are needed to detect and prevent examination malpractice.

He called for an overhaul of monitoring structures and increased support for institutions responsible for administering examinations to ensure that irregularities are effectively addressed.

His comments come after the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) announced the cancellation of 601 candidates’ results in the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), while 167 results have been withheld and 2,722 others remain under investigation.

CitiNewsRoom