The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has reiterated a full transition to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) and an expected full computerisation of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) by 2026.
The Head of the National Office, Dr. Amos Dangut, made these assurances during the sensitisation meeting with the National Assembly Committee on education in Abuja and that this process started with private candidates, and they commenced the migration in 2024, and it was already off to a “significant progress” and to be increased to all candidates in the country.
“WAEC has conducted five CBT examinations for private and school candidates; going forward the deployment of CBT will be significant,” Dr. Dangut said, and he said their approach is to have online practice platforms and mock sessions to get students comfortable with the system and assured that no candidate will lose out.
On the issue of access and infrastructure, he made it clear, “WAEC has evidence of conducting examinations even in the remotest of communities with no challenge.” Dr. Dangut says that the result of the CBT mode so far does show “empirically” improved performance compared to the conventional paper and pencil.
The members of the national assembly gave their full support for the transition. Senator Ekong Samson, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Basic and Secondary Education, said they are committed to advocating and pushing for increased funding to education. Hon. Oboku Oforji urged WAEC to at least ensure that there is one CBT centre in each of the 774 local government areas before the 2026 deadline.
The Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa called the development a historic step to reform systemically the educational system in the country. He said the move towards an online CBT system is in line with ongoing reforms to upgrade the curriculum, upgrade infrastructure, and increase digital learning that improves digital literacy for students.
“With WAEC leading the charge, we are confident that merit-based and credible processes will help achieve this goal. We have all the confidence that Zainab will create more scholarships for candidates that suit their strengths in the end.”
WAEC’s adoption of CBT system was for the delivery of examinations across the region which provides integrity, efficiency, and transparency. CB tests enhance security as it reduces malpractices and provides a faster means to process results.
The Council is aware of these challenges but these challenges mostly exist in the rural remote areas which have limited internet access and have no power. WAEC is working with the necessary authorities and stakeholders in the government and communities to ensure equitable access.
WAEC, expects that by 2026 all candidates sitting the WASSCE in countries as seen in an equitable manner as possible, will be sitting the exam in a CBT test centre. WAEC has a phased approach along with the support of the Ministers and legislatures, and by the aims envisaged, look forward to that transition with the minimum disruption.
This development will position WAEC amongst the leading agencies in the region who have championed the principles of digital examination reform, and will also provide regional benefit in strengthening the education system in WAFA through good global practice.