Gov’t reviews CSSPS, introduces post-results school selection 

Students will now select their preferred Senior High Schools after the release of BECE results under a major reform of the placement system, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu has announced.

The new policy marks a significant shift from the current system, where students choose schools before knowing their examination performance—a situation the Minister said has contributed to placement challenges over the years.

“This time, we will give a mandatory period of one week after the results have been declared for students to confirm on the basis of their performance in the BECE what their first choices are,” he explained.

According to Mr. Iddrisu, the reform is part of a broader review of the Computerised School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) aimed at improving efficiency and fairness.

He noted that in the past, students selected schools without knowing their aggregate scores, which often resulted in mismatches and dissatisfaction. The new approach, he said, will allow candidates to make more informed decisions based on their actual performance.

The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the overall placement process. “We are completely overhauling the CSSPS system,” he said, adding that the changes will ensure transparency and predictability.

As part of the reforms, the government will also restore the catchment area policy to give communities better access to nearby secondary schools.

In addition, a technical working committee will be set up to supervise the placement process and ensure strict adherence to guidelines. Authorities will also reintroduce a displacement algorithm to improve fairness in assigning students to schools.

Mr. Iddrisu further revealed that a portion of placements will be allocated to alumni, acknowledging their role in supporting schools, but warned against the misuse of such privileges.

“I pray that this will not be abused, just like the protocol is often abused,” he said, noting that tens of thousands of protocol requests were recorded in the previous year.

The reforms are expected to reduce confusion during placements, improve transparency, and restore public confidence in the system ahead of this year’s BECE.