2026 BECE: ‘I’m happy, proud we’re now seeing the true results of our children’ – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has expressed satisfaction and pride over the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) results, stating they accurately reflect the true abilities of Ghanaian students. This assessment comes after stricter measures were implemented to combat examination malpractice. During a citizens' engagement event at the University of Business and Integrated Development Studies in the Upper West Region on Saturday, 12 September, the President highlighted how enhanced invigilation has significantly curbed the occurrence of candidates receiving unauthorized assistance during exams.

Mahama emphasized that the more stringent approach is now shedding light on the genuine preparedness levels of students as they advance to the subsequent stages of their education. He stated, "One thing that I’m happy and proud of is that we’re seeing our children’s true results." The President explained that instances of collusion among headteachers and officials to facilitate cheating had previously led to the issuance of grades that did not accurately represent students' actual competence.

This practice enabled some students to progress without acquiring the essential foundational skills required for higher education.

He further noted improvements in student performance in subjects such as Mathematics and Social Studies. However, the government is currently investigating a slight decline in Social Studies scores. Mahama also mentioned that students who fail to secure placements in secondary schools after their BECE examinations are at risk of ending up on the streets.