COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PERFORMANCE IN BECE OF PUPILS IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN THE TAMALE METROPOLIS

Abstract

This study assesses the disparities in academic performance at the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) between public and private junior high schools (JHS) in the Tamale Metropolis. A descriptive research design was adopted, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were collected through questionnaires administered to 72 respondents, comprising headteachers, core subject teachers, and students from selected public and private schools. The study analyzed the data using frequencies, percentages, non parametric tests, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The findings revealed that over the past three years, public schools recorded pass rates below 60%, while private schools consistently achieved pass rates ranging from 80% to 100%. Key factors contributing to this disparity include lower teacher-student ratios in private schools, inadequate teaching and learning materials (TLMs) in public schools, lack of parental involvement in public schools, and insufficient teacher motivation. The ANOVA results confirmed statistically significant differences in BECE performance between public and private schools (F = 7.361, p < 0.001). The study recommends that educational stakeholders address disparities by ensuring adequate provision of TLMs and infrastructure for public schools. The Ghana Education Service (GES) should prioritize teacher motivation and rebrand the teaching profession to enhance societal respect for educators. Furthermore, future educational policies should emphasize active parental involvement to foster collaboration between schools and families. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on improving academic performance in public schools by drawing lessons from private schools, offering practical strategies for bridging the performance gap in Ghana’s basic education system.