By Ashiadey Dotse
Founder of Worldwide Miracle Outreach, Rev. Dr. Lawrence Tetteh, has described examination malpractice, particularly in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), as a dangerous form of corruption that is gradually spreading across all sectors of society.
Speaking in an interview on GTV’s Breakfast Show on Thursday, May 14, 2026, Rev. Tetteh said exam cheating is not a new problem but has become more serious over time, especially with the rise of technology.
He warned that dishonest practices during examinations are shaping the attitudes of young people and influencing their future behaviour.
His comments come on the back of the arrest of 43 individuals, including teachers, invigilators and supervisors, for allegedly aiding examination malpractice during the just-ended 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
According to the West African Examinations Council, the suspects were picked up at various examination centres across the country following intelligence gathered from whistleblowers and members of the public.
Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, May 12, WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, said investigations into the cases are still ongoing, with further details expected after the marking of scripts is completed.
According to him, students who engage in malpractice at an early stage often carry the same mindset into higher education and eventually into their professional lives. He noted that this has contributed to a worrying situation where some individuals in key professions may not have fully earned their qualifications.
Rev. Tetteh stressed that exam malpractice should be seen as a national concern, as it weakens the foundation of education and undermines merit. He added that when cheating becomes normal, it encourages a culture of shortcuts instead of hard work and discipline.
He also pointed out that the problem is not limited to students alone, as some parents and stakeholders indirectly support such practices. This, he said, is contributing to the erosion of integrity within the country’s education system.
The preacher further called for reforms to reduce pressure on students, noting that not all learners excel at the same pace. He urged authorities to create systems that support different learning abilities without pushing students into dishonest behaviour.
Rev. Tetteh described the situation as a wake-up call and called on the government, educators and parents to take urgent steps to address exam malpractice.
He concluded by urging a collective effort to rebuild values in the education system, stressing that Ghana must promote honesty and integrity if it is to produce competent and trustworthy professionals.
