The Moderator of the General Assembly, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, has cautioned that the growing normalisation of examination malpractice poses a grave threat to the integrity of Ghana’s education system. He issued the warning at the 8th Annual Consultation on Education at the Ramseyer Training Centre, Abetifi‑Kwahu.
Speaking to heads of Presbyterian educational institutions, the Moderator described exam malpractice as a “silent destroyer” that undermines the credibility of certificates issued to graduates and erodes public trust in academic institutions. “If this trend continues,” he said, “the quality of education in our nation will be dangerously watered down.”
He noted that malpractice has become an entitlement for many students, who now view cheating as a legitimate means to secure grades. This, he argued, is a direct contradiction of the Presbyterian values of discipline, honesty and hard work—values that have historically shaped the Church’s educational mission.
The Moderator reminded participants that Presbyterian schools were founded not merely to produce certificates, but to transform lives through character formation. “Education without morality produces intelligent criminals,” he said. “We must intentionally cultivate Christlike character in our students.”
He urged heads of institutions to enforce discipline firmly yet compassionately, suspend or expel when necessary, and strengthen internal systems that promote academic integrity. He also called for proactive counseling, strong chaplaincy presence and robust supervision to curb the rising trend.
“Our duty is to build with care,” he said, referencing 1 Corinthians 3:10. “We must use materials that last—prayer, discipline and moral strength. The future of our nation depends on the integrity of our schools.”
By Jerome Otchere
