The 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) commenced across the Talensi District in the Upper East Region on a high note, characterized by orderliness and a strict adherence to the standards set by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).
According to the District Examination Officer, Mr. Charles Yaro, Day 1 of the national exercise was successfully completed across all seven designated examination centers in the district without any recorded cases of examination malpractice or technical hitches.
Mr. Charles Yaro N. (Talensi District Examination Officer)
A total of 1,580 candidates were registered to sit for this year’s examination within the district. The cohort shows a significant female representation; Female Candidates: 875 and Male Candidates: 705
While the atmosphere at the centers remained disciplined, Mr. Yaro noted a concerning trend regarding attendance. At the close of Day 1, the district recorded 17 total absentees. Additionally, the exam officer highlighted the resilience of some candidates, noting that provisionally, 6 pregnant students and 1 lactating mother were among those present and determined to complete their papers at the Bolgatanga Senior High School Exams Center. The total number of known pregnant girls and lactating mothers in the Talensi District shall be published in our subsequent online stories, on the last day of examination.
Interviews with candidates following the first paper revealed a wave of optimism. Many students expressed satisfaction with the level of difficulty, stating that the questions were manageable and aligned with their preparations. “I was very prepared. When the paper was handed to me, I felt confident because I knew exactly what was expected of me,” said a candidate at the Bolgatanga Senior High School center. “My advice to others is to be bold and tackle the questions they know best first.”
Another student urged her peers to remain focused throughout the week, cautioning against “laziness” and encouraging them to spend their evenings revising and reviewing what they have already learned.
Reflecting on the day’s proceedings, Mr. Charles Yaro commended the supervisors and invigilators for maintaining a high standard of integrity. “The district has successfully finished Day 1 without any irregularities,” Mr. Yaro stated. However, he described the number of absentees as “alarming” and expressed hope that attendance would stabilize as the week progresses.
As the examination continues, the Talensi District Education Directorate remains committed to ensuring that the “examination mandate” from WAEC is followed to the letter, providing a fair and serene environment for all 1,580 pupils to strive for excellence.