Member of Parliament for Damongo and Ranking Member of Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee,  Samuel Abu Jinapor, has encouraged candidates writing this year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) to embrace the exams with confidence, discipline, and determination.

Addressing hundreds of enthusiastic students at the Damongo Secondary School and Busunu examination centres on the final day of the BECE, Mr Jinapor commended the candidates for their perseverance and resilience throughout the exam period.

“My dear friends, BECE candidates, I extend my warmest congratulations for successfully getting to this stage,” he said. “Today marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.

Approach your final paper with all your strength and confidence.”

He reminded the students that basic education is a constitutional right and urged them to take full advantage of it, stressing that education remains a powerful tool for personal and national transformation.

Reflecting on his educational journey, Jinapor shared that he wrote his BECE at Damongo Secondary School in 1998 after attending St. Anne’s R/C JHS in Damongo.

“If you stay focused, determined, and committed, you can accomplish far more than I have,” he encouraged.

The former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, who has consistently visited BECE candidates in the constituency over the past nine years, said his presence each year was a symbol of his deep commitment to the young people of Damongo.

“Your success is my success. Your failure is my failure,” he stated. “That is why I will always stand with you, regardless of your background, tribe, or religion. I am your servant, and I will be with you forever.”

Hon. Jinapor also advised the students, particularly the girls, to remain focused in the transitional period between BECE and senior high school. He urged them to avoid distractions and channel their time into productive activities.

“When you finish your exams, don’t idle.

Help your parents at home or on the farm.

Engage in meaningful ventures, and above all, remain patient and focused.

Your education will shape your future,” he added.

He further reminded the candidates to be thankful for their health and the opportunity to complete the exams, noting that not all students across the country were as fortunate.

The 2025 BECE officially ends today across Ghana, marking a critical milestone for thousands of junior high school students preparing to transition into senior high schools and technical institutions nationwide.