The Deputy National Public Relations Officer of the National Council of Parents and Teachers Association of Ghana, Irene Sam, has urged that the Parent Teachers Association (PTA) be given representation on the West African Examination Council (WAEC).
She explained that the move will allow parents and teachers to contribute ideas toward addressing the growing menace of examination malpractices at both the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
“It will be prudent on our side to have a representative on that board,” she stated.
Madam Irene stressed that the causes of examination malpractices are multifaceted and require contributions from all stakeholders.
She emphasized the importance of reviewing the content taught in schools to make it both learnable and achievable for students.
“Let’s also look at the content the student take to make it learnable and achievable,” she urged, adding that helping students to understand the syllabus better would reduce the temptation to engage in malpractice.
The PTA spokesperson further appealed to parents to ease the pressure they place on their children ahead of examinations, as excessive stress often leads students into malpractice.
She reminded parents and teachers that every child has unique abilities and should be guided accordingly.
“There is no child on this earth who came with a blank head, they excel in their own abilities. Our children are gift to us and are best in their own ways. So whatever performance, guide the child on what to do,” she said.
