In an unprecedented move, Ghanaian musician Black Sherif has been featured in the Creative Arts and Design segment of the 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). This groundbreaking inclusion places the contemporary artist alongside legendary Ghanaian composers Ephraim Amu and Agya Koo Nimo, showcasing the evolving landscape of Ghanaian music.
The 2024 BECE, which commenced on July 8 and is set to conclude on July 15, introduced an innovative approach in its Creative Arts and Design paper. Question 5(c) of section B required candidates to write a short note on Black Sherif, alongside the traditional figures of Ephraim Amu and Agya Koo Nimo. This note needed to cover the artist’s hometown, genre, a notable work, and their societal contributions.
Born Mohammed Ismail Sherif in Konongo-Zongo, Ashanti Region, Black Sherif’s journey to stardom began with his education at Konongo Zongo Islamic Basic School and Pinamang Educational Complex. He later attended Kumasi Academy, where he nurtured his passion for music and dance as part of the Literary Group under the Students Representative Council.
Black Sherif burst onto the music scene with his viral hit ‘First Sermon’ in May 2021, followed by ‘Second Sermon’ in July 2021. His career skyrocketed with ‘Kwaku the Traveller’ in March 2022, a track that topped the Apple Music charts in Ghana and Nigeria. His debut album, *The Villain I Never Was*, released on October 5, 2022, further cemented his place in the music industry.
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Black Sherif’s discography includes hits like ‘Kilos Milos’, ‘Yaya’, ‘Shut Up’, and ‘Soja’, showcasing his versatility as a singer, rapper, and fashion model. His works have not only resonated across Africa but have also earned him global recognition.
The inclusion of Black Sherif in the BECE syllabus highlights the importance of contemporary cultural figures in education. It offers students a unique blend of traditional and modern influences, encouraging them to appreciate the rich tapestry of Ghanaian music. Creative Arts and Design aims to foster self-exploration, self-expression, and the development of physical dexterity, mental focus, and stress management through artistic endeavors.
By featuring Black Sherif in the BECE, educational authorities have taken a significant step towards bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary arts. This move not only honors the legacy of past composers but also celebrates the dynamic and evolving nature of Ghanaian music, inspiring the next generation of artists and creatives.
