BY ODIGIE ETINOSA
The Edo State Ministry of Education has officially commenced the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) across the state, marking a pivotal step in the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance educational standards and ensure integrity within the system.
Under the stewardship of Dr Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu, the Honourable Commissioner for Education, the examination process has been carefully organised to promote transparency and fairness. Dr Iyamu has consistently emphasised that credible assessments form a cornerstone of the state’s broader educational reform agenda.
Aligned with the reform priorities of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration, this year’s BECE is being conducted at designated examination centres instead of individual schools. This strategic change aims to eliminate examination malpractice by putting an end to the notorious “miracle centres,” which have long undermined the credibility of the system.
To further strengthen the examination’s integrity, biometric verification procedures have been introduced to confirm candidate identities. In addition, personalised Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) sheets have been distributed to all candidates.
These innovations are intended to secure the examination process and ensure accurate recording of each student’s performance.
The initiatives have received strong endorsement from parents and teachers throughout Edo State, who appreciate the government’s commitment to upholding high educational standards. Many have praised the smooth execution of the examinations so far and the effective collaboration between schools and the Ministry of Education.
As the BECE continues, the Edo State government remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering quality education and safeguarding the integrity of its assessment processes. The successful commencement and ongoing conduct of the 2025 BECE stand as a clear testament to the state’s dedication to educational excellence and systemic reform
