Dr. Wiafe Akenten, a psychologist and Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana, has emphasized the need for both physical and psychological protection for students during examinations. He made these remarks in an interview on Bryt Adekyee Mu Nsem with Kwamina Sam Biney.
According to Dr. Akenten, while it is important for students to maintain a calm and focused mind during exams, it is equally critical to ensure their physical safety. He questioned the effectiveness of psychological support alone in situations where students are left unprotected.
“The ideal situation,” he explained, “is to ensure students write their exams with a pure mind, free of fear. But how can that happen when their lives are in danger?”
Referring to recent reports of unrest and even deaths involving students during exam periods, Dr. Akenten suggested that the presence of security personnel — either police or soldiers — could provide students with a sense of safety.
He believes this would allow students to concentrate better during their exams, knowing that they are protected from any potential threats.
“Most of these students are between 12 and 15 years old. At that age, fear can deeply affect their ability to perform well,” he stated. “With security present, students will feel confident that no harm will come their way during the exams.”
Dr. Akenten also noted that not every unfortunate incident is publicly reported, but school authorities — including headmasters and administrators — have likely taken steps to safeguard students, especially in areas where violence has occurred in the past. He emphasized that such incidents not only traumatize students but also instill fear in teachers and non-teaching staff.
Beyond physical safety, Dr. Akenten stressed the importance of mentally preparing students for exams. He believes schools should help students develop the right frame of mind so that they are not distracted or fearful during the examination process.
“If nothing has been done yet, it’s not too late,” he urged. “Helping students to stabilize their minds before writing exams will reduce anxiety and ensure they are not thinking about unrelated dangers while trying to concentrate.”
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Amuzu Priscilla
