Ghanaian students taking the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) this year will encounter some new challenges. Three new subjects have been added to the curriculum: Career Technology, Creative Art and Design, and Arabic.
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) announced the changes, explaining that Career Technology and Creative Art and Design are an evolution of the previous Basic Design and Technology (BDT) subject. These two subjects will be mandatory for all BECE candidates.
Arabic, however, is being introduced as an elective. This means it will be optional for students in Islamic basic schools and any other candidate who feels proficient in Arabic and desires a certificate.
Changes to the Examination Schedule
The introduction of these new subjects necessitates an extension of the exam period. Previously held over five days, the 2024 BECE will now take place over six days, from Monday, July 8th, 2024, to Monday, July 15th, 2024.
John Kapi, Head of Public Affairs for WAEC, assured the public that the council is fully prepared for the upcoming exams. All necessary meetings have been concluded, sample questions have been distributed to schools and posted on the WAEC website, and the printing of exam papers will begin soon.
The addition of Career Technology and Creative Art and Design reflects a growing emphasis on equipping students with practical skills and fostering creative expression. Career Technology is likely to cover areas like carpentry, mechanics, or computer applications, while Creative Art and Design could encompass subjects like drawing, painting, or music.
Moreover, the introduction of Arabic as an elective opens doors for students who are interested in learning the language. This could be beneficial for students who plan to pursue higher education in Arabic-speaking countries or who simply have an interest in the rich cultural heritage associated with the language.
Source: Graphic Online
