The Upper East Region is witnessing a concerning development as 21 pregnant girls and 17 lactating mothers are among the 19,523 candidates sitting for the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

According to Nathaniel N-yaaba, the Upper East Regional Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Education Service (GES), these figures reflect only visible cases, indicating that the actual numbers could be higher.

In an interview with Adom News, Mr N-yaaba revealed that the total number of candidates comprises 8,842 males and 10,681 females.

He added that the exam is being conducted at 90 designated centres across the region.

Mr N-yaaba assured that the GES is fully prepared to ensure a smooth and incident-free examination process.

He emphasised that all candidates, including pregnant girls and lactating mothers, will be supported to write the exams under dignified conditions.

The GES has also cautioned candidates against examination malpractice and urged parents to support their wards while avoiding crowding around examination centres.

The participation of pregnant girls and lactating mothers in the BECE has raised concerns about adolescent welfare and girl-child education in the region.

While stakeholders have applauded the high female participation, they stress the need to tackle the root causes of early pregnancy and teenage motherhood.