Addressing the Normalization of Examination Malpractice In Ghana

Examination malpractice has become alarmingly normalized in our society, particularly at the basic and secondary education levels. This pervasive issue, now considered commonplace, undermines the integrity of education and threatens the future of our youth.

Role of Teachers and Parents

Teachers and parents, who should be champions of ethical conduct, are often the primary architects and facilitators of examination malpractice. Ironically, these same individuals decry corruption and indiscipline among the youth while actively enabling such behaviors. Some teachers accept bribes from candidates to provide answers, a practice that contradicts their role as educators against corruption.

Media reports indicate that invigilators and teachers demand payments to assist students during exams, a practice that is both unethical and disheartening.

Additionally, some educators engage in malpractice to enhance their school’s reputation, particularly in private institutions. In a competitive academic environment, schools may resort to unethical means to project academic excellence, creating a false perception of success.

Parents are equally complicit, with some investing heavily in obtaining leaked examination questions, known as “apor,” instead of encouraging diligent preparation. This prioritization of shortcuts over hard work fosters a culture of laziness and corruption among students.

Impact on Students and Society

The normalization of examination malpractice has dire consequences. Students, aware that the system favors them, lack the motivation to study diligently despite access to abundant learning resources. This breeds a cycle of laziness and corruption, as students grow into adults who perpetuate these values. Society’s tacit approval of such practices further entrenches this cycle, stigmatizing those who oppose malpractice as selfish or obstructive to students’ progress.

Statistical Evidence

The West African Examination Council (WAEC) reported alarming statistics for 2025. In the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), 1,240 subject results were withheld pending investigations, and 718 candidates had their results canceled. Similarly, in the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), 4,108 candidates had their results canceled, with an additional 718 withheld. These incidents, largely facilitated by teachers and invigilators, highlight the growing prevalence of examination malpractice.

Consequences for the Future

The future looks bleak as young people are inducted into corrupt practices, undermining their potential as ethical leaders. The cycle of corruption and laziness threatens to perpetuate itself across generations, as today’s students raise their children with the same flawed values. This trend jeopardizes the nation’s progress and integrity.

Proposed Solutions

All stakeholders—parents, teachers, and examination bodies like WAEC—must take decisive action to combat this issue. WAEC should implement robust mechanisms to minimize malpractice, such as stricter invigilation protocols and advanced security measures for examination materials. Additionally, society must rethink its approach to assessment. The competitive nature of written examinations often drives individuals to unethical behavior. Exploring alternative assessment methods, such as project-based evaluations or continuous assessments, could reduce the incentive for malpractice.

Conclusion

Examination malpractice is a societal canker that demands urgent attention. By fostering a culture of integrity and diligence, stakeholders can break the cycle of corruption and ensure a brighter future for the next generation. It is time to prioritize ethical education and hold all parties accountable to safeguard the integrity of our academic systems.

The author, Alpha Osei Amoako, is a social commentator and an educationist with a special interest in educational leadership.

Email: kwamealpha@gmail.com

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