The Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Ghana, Adwoa Afriyie Wiafe has shared her thoughts on the company's dedication to the Girls in ICT initiative and their sustained support from 2021 to 2024. According to her, MTN Ghana has been a steadfast partner to the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation in driving the Girls in ICT program. Addressing Journalists at the National Girls-in-ICT day in Accra, Madan Wiafe emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, "MTN Ghana is committed to supporting the Ministry in this innovative program because it holds immense potential for the future. We aim to see this initiative transform the landscape of digital education for young girls." Reflecting on the sustainability of this support, she added, "The Ministry’s efforts in this regard are commendable, and as long as we can, MTN will continue to back these initiatives. She understand that the Ministry will keep evolving this program, and we are ready to discuss future strategies to enhance its impact." MTN Ghana's focus on digitalization is evident in its substantial contributions towards bridging the digital divide. Madam Wiafe passionately spoke about the journey towards this objective, stating, "Every girl we train brings us a step closer to bridging the digital divide. Over the years, we've trained approximately 14,000 girls, and today, we are training an additional 1,000. This relentless effort showcases our commitment to digital inclusivity." Addressing the young girls who have yet to participate in the program, Ms. Wiafe advised, "Work hard and take your training seriously. The financial commitment from MTN Ghana between 2021 and 2024 stands at an impressive 15.6 million Ghanaian cedis. This investment has facilitated the training of 9,000 girls and 900 teachers in essential ICT skills such as coding, website design, game development, and animation development. MTN Ghana's Girls in ICT program has made a substantial impact across various regions, including North-East, Western-North, Ahafo, Bono-East, Bono, Savannah, Northern, Eastern, and Greater Accra. Each of these regions has witnessed a transformation in digital education, empowering young girls to envision a future in technology. She disclosed thst MTN Ghana's dedication to the Girls in ICT initiative was not just about numbers; it is about creating opportunities, inspiring future leaders, and making a lasting impact on the digital landscape of Ghana. Madam Wiafe aptly put ""We believe in the power of education and technology to change lives, and we are committed to ensuring that no girl is left behind in this digital revolution." Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Dean of the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Ghana, Prof. Elsie Effah Kaufmann has made a compelling appeal to parents to support their children’s passions when choosing University courses. Speaking at the National Girls-in-ICT Day held at the Cedi Conference Centre, University of Ghana, Accra, on Tuesday, Prof. Kaufmann emphasized the critical need for greater representation of women in STEM fields, particularly in physical, mathematical, and computational sciences. "The young ladies who came forward have only been at this for a few weeks and can already create websites and develop technological solutions. This is incredibly exciting and shows the effectiveness of programs like this," Prof. Kaufmann stated. She underscored the importance of such initiatives in addressing the under-representation of women in certain STEM fields, despite their significant presence in medical and biological sciences. Highlighting the broader impact of diversity in problem-solving, Prof. Kaufmann said, "Research shows that diverse teams produce higher quality solutions. We need wide representation to solve problems effectively, and that includes having more women in STEM." Prof. Kaufmann also addressed the challenges many young women face in pursuing their desired careers, often due to parental pressure. "Parents look for secure choices for their children, but the reality is that traditional 'safe' careers are no longer guaranteed. What’s important is to encourage children to follow their passions, as this leads to excellence and fulfillment," she advised. She encouraged parents and educators to shift their focus from traditional career paths to fostering problem-solving skills and passions. "Instead of asking children what they want to be, ask them what problems they want to solve. This approach will better prepare them for the future and enable them to contribute meaningfully to society." In her message to young people, Prof. Kaufmann inspired confidence and perseverance. "There’s nothing you cannot do. Even if examples don’t exist today, you can be the pioneer. Every experience matters, and leadership is built through these experiences. Work hard, stay focused, and don’t let distractions deter you." Prof. Kaufmann concluded with a hopeful vision for the future, "I look forward to a time when events like this are no longer necessary because we have achieved full participation. Until then, we must continue to support and encourage our young women." Prof. Kaufmann's appeal is a call to action for parents, educators, and society at large to recognize and nurture the potential of young women in STEM, paving the way for a more inclusive and innovative future. On her part, Yvette Adounvo Atekpe, the CEO of Dimension Data, shared her inspiring career journey with a captivated audience, highlighting her rise from humble beginnings to becoming a prominent leader in the ICT sector. Her story was a testament to resilience, passion, and the transformative power of perseverance. After graduating from the University of Ghana, Madam Yvette faced the harsh reality of the job market. Despite her qualifications, she found herself accepting a position as a receptionist at CellTel, the second telecom company in Ghana. Reflecting on this period, Madam Yvette recalled, "I thought about it, I'm like, wow, I have just completed university, and I've come to be a receptionist. Anyway, and my mom encouraged me, she said, listen, this is a very, very, very new thing. Try it out." She added that, at that time, mobile telephony was in its infancy in Ghana, with cumbersome, handbag-sized phones and limited signal reception. Yet, Madam Yvette seized the opportunity to learn everything she could about this nascent industry. Madam Yvette's career continued to evolve as she joined Africa Online, where she worked with influential figures. At Africa Online, she navigated the challenges of the dial-up internet era, a stark contrast to today's high-speed connections. From there, she moved to Axelon, a South African-based VSAT company, which was later acquired by Dimension Data. As the Managing Director of Dimension Data, she spearheaded the launch of IS Internet Solutions in Ghana, providing connectivity solutions to major financial institutions, multinationals, and government entities. Recognizing the importance of mentorship and inclusivity, she initiated an internship program to nurture young women in ICT. "It's important to bring up the women in the organization to take a real interest in ICT," she emphasized, noting the success of many who have passed through the program. When Dimension Data was acquired by NCT, the third-largest telecom company in the world, she saw an opportunity. Faced with NCT's decision to divest from West Africa and the Middle East, she boldly decided to bid for the company's assets. Competing against industry giants, Yvette's determination and strategic vision secured her the successful acquisition, making her the owner of an ICT company that she once joined as a receptionist. She attributed her success to the foresight of her headmistress at Holy Child, who encouraged her to pursue science. She encouraged the young women in her audience to embrace the opportunities before them, saying, "My dears, today when you are all here, it's because the country has seen something you have not seen as yet. And believe you me, I am sure that in the next few years, we are going to have so many success stories from you young ladies here today." Her journey, marked by continuous learning and unyielding resolve, serves as a powerful inspiration. Yvette concluded her speech with an open invitation to young women seeking mentorship and internships, expressing her commitment to fostering the next generation of female leaders in ICT. "Watch this space," she declared, "because this journey for you is just the beginning." Yvette Adounvo Atekpe's story is not just a personal triumph but a beacon of hope and possibility for all aspiring young women in STEM and ICT. Juliana Jones Ametorwogo, a staff at telecommunications giant, Telecel, has become a passionate advocate for encouraging young girls to pursue careers in ICT and STEM fields. Her journey from a curious student in Lapaz, a community in the Greater Accra Region to a professional in the telecommunications industry was both inspiring and instructive, highlighting the importance of diversity and creativity in technology. Addressing a group of young girls interested in ICT, Juliana expressed her excitement about their enthusiasm. "Seeing all you girls here right now, I mean, deciding on your own that ICT is the way, ICT is the future, is so encouraging. You are all convinced that this is the path you want to take, and that's fantastic." Juliana emphasized the critical need for diversity in technology to create more innovative solutions. "Technology is all about creating solutions," she said. "Are you going to allow only men and boys to design solutions for us? No, we need more diversity in the industry. We want solutions tailored to our needs as women. Who knows our problems better than ourselves?" She illustrated her point by mentioning how some websites and games fail to appeal to women because they lack the creative touches that female designers can bring. "We love color, we love beautiful things. If you, the girls, design those websites, you can imagine how appealing they would be." Juliana also highlighted the importance of addressing unmet needs in society through technology. Reflecting on her own journey, Juliana recounted her early fascination with science and technology. Growing up in Lapaz, she discovered her love for mathematics and science in primary school, often teaching her classmates when they struggled with the subjects. "It came so easy to me," she said. "From that point, I knew science was the way." Her path led her to Ola Senior High School, where she intentionally chose to study science, eventually becoming the assistant school prefect. Her interest in telecommunications was sparked by her interactions with Ghana Telecom field engineers who visited her school. "Watching them work was fascinating. I knew then that I wanted to be a telecom engineer." Despite societal expectations to pursue medicine, Juliana followed her passion and enrolled in Telecom Engineering at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). She excelled in her studies, particularly in physics and mathematics, and graduated with flying colors. Juliana's career journey continued to flourish as she joined Telecel, where she now uses her platform to inspire and mentor young women. "I want to tell you a few reasons why we need more girls in ICT," she said. "Diversity brings more creative solutions, and women are perfectly positioned to design solutions tailored to our own needs." Juliana's story was a powerful example of how determination, passion, and a commitment to education can lead to success and positive change. Her message to the young girls was for them to embrace ICT and STEM, because the future of technology needs their unique perspectives and creativity. Other mentorship took turns to share their life stories and encouraged the young girls to embrace ICT for a better future. Some students who spoke to Thinknewsonline.com revealed that the programme has exposed them to coding and how to create games. They thanked the Communications and Digitalisation Minister for the initiative and assured that they will make good use of ICT. The National Girls-in-ICT Day event saw several speakers echoing similar sentiments, stressing the need for continued support for young women in technology and engineering fields. The National Girls-in-ICT Day is an initiative aimed at empowering and encouraging girls and young women to consider careers in information and communication technology (ICT). The event celebrated the achievements of young women in ICT and encouraged further participation in these critical areas. The event seeks to address gender imbalances in STEM fields by providing young women with opportunities to explore and develop their skills in technology and engineering. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a significant political move ahead of the upcoming election, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has officially endorsed Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, affectionately known as NAPO, as the ideal running mate for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. This endorsement was made during a grand event in Kumasi, where President Akufo-Addo addressed members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). Highlighting Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s impressive track record, President Akufo-Addo praised his tenure as Minister of Education and later as Minister of Energy. He particularly noted NAPO’s instrumental role in successfully implementing the government’s flagship Free Senior High School (SHS) program. “In our first term, the Free SHS initiative was put in his hands, and he delivered exceptionally as Education Minister. The policy has done so well that others have started claiming it,” the President stated, underscoring the significant impact of the program on Ghana’s educational landscape. Transitioning to Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s achievements in the energy sector, President Akufo-Addo commended his efforts in resolving the country’s erratic power supply issues, commonly known as ‘dumsor.’ “I made him Energy Minister in my second term, and he performed well. This ‘dumsor’ that people are talking about is not there and will not happen. He has worked for this country, so I know that as a running mate, he will deliver, and Ghanaians will be proud,” President Akufo-Addo asserted, emphasizing the stability and progress achieved under NAPO’s stewardship. The President expressed strong confidence in Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s ability to significantly contribute to the NPP’s success in the forthcoming election, urging the gathered crowd to rally behind the party. He called on NPP members to support the candidacy of Dr. Bawumia and Dr. Opoku Prempeh, highlighting the duo’s proven track record and commitment to national development. The endorsement of Dr. Opoku Prempeh as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate marks a strategic move for the NPP, positioning the party strongly for the electoral battle ahead. With this endorsement, the NPP aims to leverage Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s expertise and accomplishments in education and energy to galvanize support and secure victory in the upcoming election. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Kumasi Jubilee Park was a hive of activity as party supporters and notable figures gathered to witness the official unveiling of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, commonly known as NAPO, as the running mate to the party's presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. The event attracted not only political enthusiasts but also a variety of vendors who capitalized on the large turnout. Food stalls and sachet water sellers dotted the park, their presence a testament to the high foot traffic and the bustling atmosphere of the occasion. Reports indicated that business was booming, with vendors relishing the opportunity to cater to the crowds. The demand for party paraphernalia was notably high, with many young entrepreneurs seizing the chance to make a profit. Excited vendors reported a significant uptick in sales, driven by the fervor of attendees eager to show their support through flags, T-shirts, and other merchandise. Yaa Nyarkoh, a trader at the event, shared her delight with our news team: "My brother, business has really been good. I've seen a noticeable increase in my daily sales." The energetic and festive atmosphere underscored the significance of the event for party supporters, as they celebrated the announcement of NAPO as a key player in the upcoming election. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In a significant political development, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has issued a strong admonition to Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, urging him not to disappoint Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. The caution came after Dr. Bawumia introduced Dr. Opoku Prempeh as his running mate for the upcoming 2024 elections during a visit to the Manhyia Palace. The meeting, held with the grandeur befitting such a notable event, saw the presence of several dignitaries and party stalwarts. Dr. Bawumia, who has been a key figure in the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), chose Dr. Opoku Prempeh, the current Minister of Energy, in a strategic move aimed at solidifying the party’s appeal across diverse demographics. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, revered for his wisdom and influence, did not mince words in his counsel to Dr. Opoku Prempeh. He stressed the importance of loyalty and dedication, reminding him of the high expectations and trust placed upon him. The Asantehene emphasized that this partnership is not merely a political arrangement but a significant responsibility towards the nation. "Do not let Bawumia regret choosing you," Otumfuo Osei Tutu II stated, underscoring the gravity of the role Dr. Opoku Prempeh is set to undertake. His caution reflects the weight of expectations from the Ashanti region and beyond, where both leaders have substantial support bases. Dr. Bawumia, known for his economic expertise and digitalization initiatives, has often highlighted the need for capable and trustworthy leaders in his team. His choice of Dr. Opoku Prempeh is seen as a move to harness his administrative acumen and experience in governance. Dr. Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as 'Napo,' has served in various capacities, including as the Minister of Education, where he spearheaded several significant reforms. The Asantehene's remarks resonate deeply within the political landscape, as his support and counsel are highly regarded. His words serve as both a warning and encouragement, aiming to ensure that the chosen leaders remain committed to their duties and the welfare of the citizens. As the NPP gears up for the 2024 elections, the unveiling of Dr. Opoku Prempeh as the vice-presidential candidate marks a crucial step in their campaign. The partnership between Dr. Bawumia and Dr. Opoku Prempeh is poised to bring a blend of economic strategy and administrative experience, which the party hopes will appeal to a broad spectrum of voters. The caution from the Asantehene serves as a reminder of the high stakes involved and the expectations of the people. It highlights the importance of integrity, commitment, and service in the journey towards the 2024 elections and beyond. With the political climate intensifying, all eyes will be on Dr. Opoku Prempeh to see how he responds to this significant endorsement and caution. His performance in the coming months will be critical in shaping the NPP's campaign and their prospects in the 2024 elections. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The city of Kumasi and the greater Ashanti Region are alight with excitement as the New Patriotic Party (NPP) prepares to unveil Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, as the running mate for the party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. This enthusiasm was confirmed by Francis Adomako, the Ashanti Regional Organiser of the NPP, in an interview with an Accra-based radio station. Mr. Adomako shared that the announcement of NAPO’s selection has generated a wave of happiness and optimism throughout Kumasi and the Ashanti Region. He attributed this to NAPO’s charismatic personality and his reputation as an effective leader who gets things done. “Right from the time the name came up, everything in the Ashanti region changed. Those selling along the street were happy, market women were happy, traders were happy, sellers were happy, and buyers were happy,” Mr. domako recounted, illustrating the widespread positive impact of NAPO’s impending unveiling. The joy is palpable across various sectors of society. “Everybody was happy. Students were happy, teachers were happy, lecturers were happy, party people who in quote say they have retired all of a sudden became energized all because of this particular name, Matthew Opoku Prempeh,” he continued. This surge in morale among NPP supporters and the general populace signifies NAPO’s strong influence and the hope he brings to the region. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, currently serving as the Minister for Energy, has established himself as a prominent figure in Ghanaian politics. Known for his hands-on approach and ability to drive initiatives to successful completion, NAPO has earned a reputation as a “doer.” Adomako emphasized, “He is the calibre of person that carries people along with him. He is a charismatic leader; he is a doer. He is such a person that if you want to work, he will help you to work.” Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti Region, is a critical stronghold for the NPP. The city's enthusiastic response to NAPO’s selection is seen as a significant boost for the party’s prospects in the upcoming 2024 elections. The fervor in Kumasi indicates a high level of readiness and motivation among the NPP’s grassroots supporters, setting the stage for a robust and dynamic campaign. The strategic choice of NAPO as Dr. Bawumia’s running mate aims to consolidate support in the Ashanti Region and inspire confidence across the nation. As the NPP gears up for the 2024 elections, the partnership between Dr. Bawumia and NAPO is poised to energize the party’s base and attract a broad spectrum of voters. With Kumasi and the Ashanti Region fired up for NAPO’s official unveiling, the NPP is hopeful that this momentum will carry forward into a successful election campaign, potentially securing victory in the highly anticipated polls. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Volta River Authority (VRA) has announced plans to engage stakeholders regarding a potential spillage of excess water from the Akosombo Dam. This move aims to maintain the structural integrity of the dam and ensure community safety. In a notice signed by Ing. Ken Arthur, VRA’s Deputy Chief Executive in Charge of Services, over 40 stakeholders, including the Minister for the Interior and all assemblies within the dam’s catchment areas, were informed of the impending discussions. "The Volta River Authority (VRA) intends to commence engagements regarding the potential controlled spillage of water from the Akosombo Dam. This precautionary measure is crucial to maintaining the structural integrity of the dam and ensuring the safety of our communities," the notice read. The engagement will cover the potential implications of the spillage, mitigative measures, and strategies for information dissemination to the affected parties. The proactive approach follows the significant impact of the controlled spillage carried out from September 15 to October 30, 2023, which resulted in severe flooding in surrounding areas, particularly within the Lower Volta region. The 2023 spillage affected over 88,000 people and damaged more than 5,000 homes, according to government figures. In response, the government announced a GH¢220 million compensation package for the victims. During his 67th Independence Day speech in Koforidua on March 6, 2023, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo stated that GH¢80 million of the compensation had already been disbursed. However, this claim was later disputed by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu. As the VRA moves forward with its stakeholder engagements, it emphasizes the importance of community involvement and preparedness to mitigate the risks associated with any potential spillage from the Akosombo Dam. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has confirmed the arrest of five invigilators involved in examination malpractice during the ongoing 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). The arrests took place in the Ashanti and Bono regions, where the invigilators were found to be engaging in activities that compromised the integrity of the exams. It will be recalled that in a press briefing last Friday, WAEC disclosed that it had deployed independently recruited monitors and collaborated with national security agencies, including the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), to oversee the examination process. This proactive measure led to the detection of irregularities at various exam centers. Speaking in an interview with an Accra-based television station on Monday, Mr. John Kapi, Director of Public Affairs for WAEC, provided details of the incidents. He explained that in the Bono region, invigilators were caught with mobile phones in the examination hall, which is against WAEC regulations. These phones were used to take snapshots of ongoing exam papers and post them on a WhatsApp platform set up for distributing the leaked content. The phones were confiscated, and the invigilators were immediately handed over to the police. The NIB also apprehended three additional invigilators in a nearby municipality who were found with materials containing answers to the exam questions being written by candidates at that time. WAEC emphasized its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the examination process. The agency is working closely with the police to ensure that the invigilators face the full force of the law. The confiscated phones are being used as evidence in the ongoing investigation. Reports of students being asked to remove their belts and shoes before entering the exam hall have surfaced, raising concerns among candidates and parents. However, Mr. Kapi clarified that WAEC has no specific rules regarding dress code beyond requiring that candidates do not carry any foreign materials into the examination hall. He suggested that such measures might have been taken by individual schools or exam centers as a precautionary step. An official from the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) urged the public not to jump to conclusions and emphasized the importance of verifying the reasons behind such actions. The officer stressed the need for cooperation and understanding to prevent any misinformation that could cause unnecessary panic. WAEC’s swift action in addressing examination malpractice highlights its dedication to upholding high standards in the education system. The Council reassures the public that it will continue to monitor the situation closely and take all necessary steps to ensure the integrity of the BECE. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President Akufo-Addo has extended his best wishes to the candidates of the 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), encouraging them to stay focused and perform to the best of their abilities. In his motivational message, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the importance of remaining calm and diligent, assuring the candidates that a bright future awaits those who put in the effort. He reinforced that the entire nation stands in support of their endeavors during this pivotal time. “Remember, your hard work and dedication have brought you this far,” he advised, highlighting the significant milestone the examination represents in their educational journey. The President reminded the candidates to avoid any form of examination malpractice, stressing the importance of honesty and integrity. “Honesty and integrity are values that will serve you well throughout your lives,” President Akufo-Addo stated. “Approach each paper with a clear mind, answer the questions to the best of your ability, and trust in the knowledge and skills you have acquired over the years.” According to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), a total of 569,095 candidates will sit for this year’s BECE, which begins on Monday, July 8. This includes 282,648 males and 286,447 females from 19,506 schools across the nation. Mr. John K. Kapi, Head of Public Affairs at the WAEC National Office, revealed at a press conference in Accra that this year’s figure marks a 5.29 percent decrease compared to the 2023 entry figure of 600,900 candidates. The examination will be conducted in 2,123 locations nationwide, with a comprehensive supervisory and invigilation team comprising 2,123 supervisors, 1,889 assistant supervisors, and 19,973 invigilators to ensure the smooth administration of the tests. President Akufo-Addo’s inspiring message aims to instill confidence and a sense of responsibility in the BECE candidates as they embark on this crucial chapter of their academic journey. Story by: Sarah-Joyce Komenan

The National Association of Sachet and Packaged Water Producers (NASPAWAP) has joined plastic manufacturers in calling on the government to indefinitely suspend the newly imposed 5% excise tax on finished plastics. The association argues that this tax will exacerbate financial hardships for consumers. In a recent statement, NASPAWAP proposed an alternative approach: reducing the environmental excise tax rate to 1% at entry points for all imported plastic granules, and imposing a 10% tax on the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of semi-finished plastics imported into the country. They believe this strategy would better address the environmental concerns posed by plastics while being less burdensome to consumers. “There is already a 10% environmental excise tax on selected plastics at the ports of entry. We supported taxing plastic granules at entry points to broaden the tax base, as all plastic granules are imported. However, during implementation, only a selected few were captured,” the statement explained. NASPAWAP is urging the government to suspend the additional 5% excise tax on finished plastics indefinitely and engage with stakeholders to find a more equitable solution. Story by: Sarah-Joyce Komenan

Over 1,901 candidates are participating in this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in Nkwanta South, Oti Region. Among them are four nursing mothers and six pregnant girls, all determined to complete their education despite facing challenges like fatigue, morning sickness, and the demands of caring for newborns. At the Kechiebi RC center, family members assisted by caring for the babies while the mothers took their exams. Examination Coordinator, Lawrence Antwi cautioned against any form of malpractice, urging candidates to take the exams seriously to benefit from the free Senior High School (SHS) education. Several candidates pledged to adhere to the examination rules to ensure a smooth process. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Today, Monday, July 8, marks the commencement of the 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), with a significant turnout of 569,095 candidates. According to Mr. John K. Kapi, Head of Public Affairs at the WAEC National Office, this year's candidates will have English Language as their first paper and conclude with Arabic on Monday, July 15. The candidates, comprising 282,648 males and 286,447 females from 19,506 schools, represent a notable decrease of 5.29% compared to last year's 600,900 candidates. The examinations will be administered across 2,123 locations nationwide, overseen by a robust team of 2,123 supervisors, 1,889 assistant supervisors, and 19,973 invigilators to ensure a seamless process. This year's school candidates will be assessed based on the newly introduced Common Core Curriculum, while private candidates will adhere to the old syllabus. Mr. Kapi highlighted that the examination's Guidelines, Scheme, and Structure have been developed and circulated to all school heads, with further details available on the WAEC website for interested stakeholders. The Council has registered 1,366 private candidates, comprising 735 males and 631 females. This figure reflects a 25.7% decrease from the 2023 total of 1,839. These exams will be conducted across 15 centers located primarily in regional capitals. To ensure the smooth conduct of the examinations, the Council has organized sensitization programs to educate candidates on the rules and regulations. Additionally, examination materials such as objective answer cards, answer booklets, and pencils have been distributed to District Education Offices nationwide. Provisions have also been made for candidates with special educational needs, ensuring inclusivity for all. As the BECE 2024 begins, the collective efforts of supervisors, invigilators, and the entire educational community are set to provide a conducive environment for candidates to showcase their knowledge and skills. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith