7 pregnant candidates, 2 nursing mothers, write BECE in Awutu Senya West

Seven pregnant candidates and two lactating mothers turned up among thousands of pupils sitting this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the Awutu Senya West District.

According to a report by adomonline.com on May 5, 2025, data from the Ghana Education Service (GES) Directorate in the district shows that a total of 4,122 candidates participated in the exams, with 2,086 being females and 2,036 males.

The seven pregnant candidates are spread across several communities: three in Awutu Bawjiase, and one each in Jei-Krodua, Papaase, Awutu Bereku, and Senya Beraku.

12 pregnant girls, 7 nursing mothers write BECE

In addition, two lactating mothers from Awutu Bawjiase and Awutu Bereku are also sitting for the exams, in some cases juggling childcare alongside their papers.

Their presence at the examination centres emphasised a quiet determination to push forward, despite the stigma, health concerns, and emotional strain.

Education authorities say measures have been put in place to support these candidates, ensuring they can write their exams in safe, comfortable, and accommodating environments.

Officials are closely monitoring their condition throughout the examination period.

Meanwhile, attendance figures from the first day recorded 11 absentees; five boys and six girls; a contrast that further draws attention to the commitment shown by those who turned up despite personal challenges.

For many observers, the participation of pregnant girls and young mothers in the BECE serves as both a reflection of ongoing social issues and proof of an enduring hope that education can still provide a pathway to a better future.

NA/VPO