Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to introduce a National Standardised Test (NST) for students in basic schools across Ghana. The purpose of this initiative is to better prepare students for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) by familiarizing them with the examination environment at an earlier stage in their education.
The NST will be administered to students in Class 2, Class 4, Class 6, and JSS 2. The Minister emphasized that the primary goal of the test is to psychologically prepare pupils for national assessments and enhance their readiness for future examinations. By introducing the NST at these key stages in their education, students will be better equipped to handle the pressure and expectations that come with standardized testing.
“I am delighted to announce that a National Standardised Test will be implemented in Ghana for students in P2, P4, P6, and JSS2. The rationale behind this initiative is simple – we want to ensure that students do not encounter an examination setting for the first time only during the BECE. This test will provide them with a sense of familiarity with the examination environment and empower them to perform better in national assessments,” stated Minister Iddrisu.
In addition to preparing students for the BECE, the NST is expected to have a positive impact on learning outcomes by identifying students’ strengths and weaknesses early on in their educational journey. By pinpointing areas where students may need additional support or resources, educators can tailor their teaching methods to address these specific needs and ultimately improve student performance.
It is important to note that the introduction of the NST is a significant step towards enhancing the quality of education in Ghana and ensuring that students are adequately prepared for the challenges of standardized testing. By implementing this initiative, the Ministry of Education is taking proactive measures to support students in their academic pursuits and set them up for success in future examinations.
Overall, the National Standardised Test is poised to make a positive impact on the education system in Ghana by equipping students with the skills and confidence they need to excel in national assessments. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to improving educational outcomes and providing students with the tools they need to succeed in their academic endeavors.
