Waec
Picnews
The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a significant reform in the country’s education sector by transitioning the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) to Computer-Based Testing (CBT). This move aims to strengthen examination integrity, reduce malpractice, and align Nigeria’s assessment system with global standards.
The CBT format will help safeguard the credibility of certificates and reduce examination malpractice. By adopting this technology-driven approach, the government hopes to improve standards and expand digital competence among students. This reform is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on restructuring the national curriculum, upgrading classrooms with modern tools, and reforming technical, tertiary, and medical education.
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) plans to fully implement CBT for WASSCE by 2026. To prepare candidates for this transition, mock sessions and online practice platforms will be introduced. WAEC has also introduced digital resources, including the WAEC E-Study Portal, WAEC E-Learning Portal, and WAEC Konnect, to support candidates in their preparation. The council will provide individualized questions to prevent cheating and ensure the integrity of the examination process.
The Ministry of Education will work closely with schools to ensure learners are adequately prepared for the transition. This collaboration will help students become familiar with the CBT format and build their confidence in using digital tools. By equipping students with essential digital skills, the government aims to position Nigeria’s education system for competitiveness on the global stage.
The transition to CBT is expected to improve the overall quality of education in Nigeria. With a focus on digital literacy and technological advancement, this reform will help students develop the skills required to thrive in a knowledge-driven economy. As Nigeria embarks on this educational reform, it is anticipated that the CBT-based WASSCE will become a benchmark for excellence in the country’s education sector.
