GNAPS Intensifies Calls for WAEC to Review and Reduce BECE Registration Fees  

GNAPS Intensifies Calls for WAEC to Review and Reduce BECE Registration Fees

The Ghana National Association of Private Schools (GNAPS) has renewed its appeal to the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to reconsider the recent upward adjustment of registration fees for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

The association described increment as excessive and burdensome for many Ghanaian families.

Stressing that more than 20 per cent increase in the examination fees has exacerbated the financial strain already confronting parents, particularly within the context of the prevailing economic challenges.

GNAPS argues that the cost escalation threatens to widen educational inequality, as some families may struggle to afford the fees required for their children to participate in the national examination.

Addressing attendees at the official launch of the 2026 GNAPS Week celebration in Ejisu in the Ashanti Region, the President of the Association, Professor Tuurosong Damasus, underscored the need for WAEC to demonstrate greater sensitivity to the economic realities of the nation.

He noted that both parents and private school proprietors continue to grapple with the residual effects of inflation, high operational costs, and dwindling household incomes.

Professor Tuurosong Damasus further emphasized that any future adjustments to examination fees should be carried out through broad stakeholder consultation.

He stressed that GNAPS, as a critical partner in the education sector, must be engaged in all deliberations concerning fee reviews to ensure that decisions reflect fairness, transparency, and the collective interest of learners.

He added that with indicators pointing toward gradual economic stabilization, it would be prudent for WAEC to reconsider its fee structure and offer some relief to parents by reducing the cost of BECE registration.

Adding that such a step would not only ease financial pressure but also reaffirm WAEC’s commitment to promoting accessible and equitable education.

Beyond the issue of examination fees, the GNAPS President appealed to regulatory and enforcement bodies to adopt a more humane and collaborative approach when engaging with private schools.

He cautioned that punitive actions, particularly the closure of schools, tend to inflict severe consequences on the learners rather than the proprietors, disrupting academic progress and creating emotional and logistical challenges for children and families.

Professor Tuurosong therefore called for enhanced dialogue, mutual understanding, and supportive regulatory practices that uphold standards without compromising the welfare of pupils.