Set SHS admission cut-off point at aggregate 36 – COHBS urges government

The Conference of Heads of Basic Schools (COHBS) has urged the government and education stakeholders to implement a cut-off point of aggregate 36 for entry into second-cycle institutions.

According to COHBS, this measure will promote discipline and seriousness among Junior High School (JHS) students, some of whom do not prioritize their studies because they are assured admission to Senior High Schools (SHS) regardless of their performance in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

Addressing the press, the Volta Regional Chairman of COHBS, Vincent Gordor, emphasized that introducing an admission threshold should be part of a broader review of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, which was introduced by the Akufo-Addo-led government in 2017.

Capitation grants and school administration

Mr Gordor highlighted the persistent delays and inadequacy of capitation grants, which schools rely on for procuring learning and teaching materials, conducting curricular and extracurricular activities, and maintaining school infrastructure.

“The persistent delay and inadequacy of these funds have left many schools struggling to function effectively. We urge the government to ensure timely and adequate disbursement of capitation grants so that schools can run smoothly,” he said.

Shortage of furniture in public schools

COHBS also raised concerns about the severe shortage of furniture in public schools across the country, forcing students to study under uncomfortable conditions, including sitting on bare floors and broken desks.

“This situation is not conducive to learning and must be addressed immediately. We call on the government, corporate organizations, and philanthropic individuals to provide the necessary furniture for our schools,” Mr. Gordor appealed.

Lack of textbooks affecting curriculum implementation

Mr Gordor lamented the poor implementation of the Standards-Based Curriculum and the Common Core Programme due to the unavailability of critical textbooks in various basic schools.

“Since the introduction of the Standards-Based Curriculum and Common Core Programmes, textbooks for critical subjects remain unavailable. Kindergarten has no workbooks at all, while Lower and Upper Primary students have textbooks for only four subjects—English Language, Mathematics, Science, and Creative Arts. Junior High Schools only have textbooks for Basic 7 and Basic 8, leaving Basic 9 students without any textbooks at all,” he explained.

He stressed that this gap negatively affects learning outcomes and called on the government to address the issue immediately.

Rising indiscipline

COHBS also expressed concern over the growing levels of indiscipline in schools, citing hooliganism, vandalism, bullying, and general misconduct.

“The behaviours exhibited by some students today do not reflect individuals who will grow into responsible citizens. We urge the Ministry of Education to establish guidance and counselling units in all schools while parents take steps to instil moral values in their children,” Mr Gordor stated.

Absorption of utility bills for public basic schools

COHBS called on the government to absorb utility bills for public basic schools, as covering these costs strains the limited funds available for school administration and activities.

“We appeal to the government to either fully absorb these costs or provide subsidies to ease the financial burden on school administrators,” he added.

National Standardised Test (NST)

Mr Gordor criticized the poor implementation of the National Standardised Test (NST), citing last-minute preparations and delays in paying supervisors’ allowances, with some waiting almost a year for their compensation. He also noted that results are not sent to schools, preventing them from analyzing students’ weaknesses and improving learning outcomes.

“We call on the Ministry of Education and GES to ensure that the NST is properly budgeted for and effectively implemented,” he stressed.

Delayed BECE results release

COHBS also expressed frustration over the delayed release of BECE results by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), which has become a recurring issue.

“As we speak, the 2024 BECE results have not yet been released, even though another batch of students is preparing for the next examination. This delay prevents schools from analyzing performance trends and implementing corrective measures. WAEC must sit up and improve efficiency in releasing BECE results on time,” Mr. Gordor said.

COHBS remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that basic education in Ghana is improved, calling for urgent action to address these challenges.