Eastern Region records increase in BECE candidates

Koforidua, April 19, GNA- The number of candidates writing the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the Eastern Region this year, had increased from 33,405 in 2004 to 34,520 this year, representing an increase of 3.34 per cent. The candidates, who are writing the exams in 129 centres, were registered by 1,108 public and private schools in the 15 education districts of the Region.

Some districts recorded low number of candidates for this year's BECE.

The Akropong District, which presented 1,947 candidates in 2004 have 1,937 candidates for this year, Begoro had 1,213 in 2004 and 1,203 in 2005, while Donkorkrom presented 1,020 in 2004 and 1,011 this year. The Kibi District recorded 3,579 in 2004 and 3,558 in 2005, while the number of candidates in Suhum also decreased by six candidates from 2,297 in 2004 to 2,289 in 2005.

The Kwahu South recorded the highest increase in the number of candidates with 3,941 in 2004 and 4,303 in 2005. The Akim Oda district added 196 more candidates over the 2004 figures, Kade District moved from 2,489 in 2004 to 2,718 in 2005 while New Juabenso recorded 2, 915, showing an increase of 180 candidates over the previous year.

The Odumase Krobo District recorded 2,160 candidates representing an increased of 82 more candidates, Asamankese increased the number of candidates from 2,483 in 2004 to 2,540 in 2005, while Somanya District increased the number from 1,498 in 2004 to 1,523 in 2005 and Nsawam District from 2,016 in 2004 to 2,053 in 2005.

However, Asuogyaman added four candidates to this year's figure of 1,533 while New Abirem added one candidate to the previous record of 1805.