Editorial: Increasing Rate Of SHS Automatic Placements Very Commendable

In the recent past, chaotic scenes were witnessed at the Independence Square, where hundreds of parents and prospective senior high school (SHS) students thronged the place to resolve challenges confronting their placement by the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS). However, it seems the school selection and placement system has improved over the years.

The Ministry of Education has released the 2024/25 placement results for Senior High Schools and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Institutions with a high rate of automatic placements.

A statement from the Ministry of Education indicated that out of the 563,339 results received from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), 553,155 candidates qualified to be placed and that a total of 447,698 (80.93%) qualified candidates were automatically placed in one of their choices.

Another 104,918 qualified candidates could not be matched to any of their choices according to the Ministry of Education’s statement. Students who were not placed are also encouraged to visit the Self-Placement platform to select a school of their choice.

According to the Ministry, out of 563,339 candidates who took the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), 553,155 qualified for placement.  A remarkable 80.93% of these candidates amounting to 447,698 students were automatically matched with one of their preferred schools, an achievement that speaks volumes about the improvements made in recent years.

The Chronicle commends the Ministry of Education for improving on the automatic placement of students in schools of their choices. This high rate of automatic placements reflects the Ministry’s dedication to streamlining the selection process and, more importantly, to respecting students’ preferences. It is heartening to see this commitment, as it shows that our educational system is adapting to the diverse needs and aspirations of young Ghanaians.

Another positive development is the introduction of the Self-Placement platform for the 104,918 qualified candidates who were not matched with any of their preferred choices. This platform provides an opportunity for these students to proactively select a school, ensuring they are not left behind. Such flexibility is a significant improvement, allowing students to have a say in their future, even if their initial choices are unavailable.

The Ministry deserves commendation for making the process more responsive to individual needs, ultimately giving students a sense of control over their educational paths. However, while the progress is commendable, there is still room for improvement. The fact that over 100,000 qualified students could not secure any of their chosen placements indicates that more needs to be done to match educational demand with available resources.

It is essential to ensure that all students, especially those who were unable to secure placements in their preferred schools, are not left scrambling for options or, worse, left out of the school system altogether.

The Ministry of Education must closely monitor the Self-Placement platform to ensure it functions smoothly and fairly. Technical issues, limited options, or insufficient guidance could lead to significant barriers for students, especially those from less privileged backgrounds who may lack the resources or support to navigate the process. The goal should be to prevent any qualified student from being left without a school, due to procedural or logistical challenges.

Moreover, steps should be taken to further increase the number of available placements in reputable institutions, so that the demand for quality education is met with adequate supply.

By expanding access and supporting all students through this transition, the Ministry can help prevent the unfortunate situation where students are forced to roam in search of admission.

This will not only relieve the stress placed on students and their families but also uphold the principle of equitable access to education for all.

The Ministry of Education has made notable advancements in the placement process, and the flexibility introduced through the Self-Placement platform is indeed a step in the right direction. Yet, the job is not complete until every qualified student has a guaranteed place in a school.

The future of our country depends on an educated youth, and every effort should be made to ensure that these young minds are provided with the opportunities they deserve.

It is our hope that the Ministry will take proactive measures to address the gaps in the current system, making education truly accessible and inclusive for all.

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