The Acting Oti Regional Director of Education, Mrs Irene Jacquelinda Attabra, has warned against examination malpractice, describing it as a growing threat to the credibility of Ghana’s educational system and the future of its youth.

Speaking at a regional sensitisation campaign held at Bueman Senior High School, Mrs Attabra said the initiative forms part of a nationwide exercise spearheaded by the Ghana Education Service (GES) Headquarters.

The campaign, running from April 28 to May 1, 2026, is being implemented across all sixteen regions to address the rising incidence of examination malpractice.

She noted that while Ghana’s education system had historically produced world-class scholars and professionals, recent years have seen a troubling increase in dishonest practices during national examinations.

According to her, what was once limited to isolated cases of cheating has now evolved into a sophisticated problem that undermines public confidence in examination outcomes.

Mrs Attabra lamented that the integrity of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), once unquestioned, is now being challenged by widespread malpractice. She warned that such practices not only disadvantage honest students but also risk devaluing Ghanaian academic certificates on the global stage.

"This is not just a school problem; it is a societal issue that threatens the very foundation of our human resource development," she stressed, urging stakeholders to reflect on the long-term consequences of allowing dishonesty to thrive.

The Acting Director called on political and administrative authorities to enforce examination regulations without fear or favour, while appealing to traditional and religious leaders to promote values of integrity within their communities.

She also urged teachers and their unions to uphold the sanctity of the teaching profession, emphasizing their critical role as custodians of the classroom.

Mrs Attabra further appealed to the media to amplify the campaign’s message, ensuring that parents and students across the Oti Region understand that the 2026 BECE and WASSCE will be conducted strictly on the principles of merit and integrity.

She cautioned that the Ghana Education Service would not tolerate any form of malpractice, warning that offenders whether students or officials would face severe consequences.

"The integrity of our national examinations is non-negotiable. There will be no leniency, no exceptions, and no second chances. If you choose to cheat, you choose to face the consequences," she noted.

Mrs Attabra reaffirmed the region’s commitment to promoting academic excellence through hard work and discipline, urging all stakeholders to unite in safeguarding the future of Ghana’s youth.

The sensitisation exercise brought together key stakeholders, including educators, community leaders, and students, to deliberate on strategies to curb examination malpractice and strengthen the integrity of the education system.