WAEC Sets Strict ICT Standards For CBT Exams
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has rolled out mandatory requirements for schools ahead of the full migration of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) to computer-based testing (CBT) by 2026.
At a sensitisation programme in Port Harcourt, Head of Examinations, WAEC, Mr. Lucky Njoagwuani, said schools must provide at least 250 functional laptops with 10 per cent backups, a strong computer server that can support 250 systems simultaneously, and a Local Area Network setup.
Other essentials include air conditioning, uninterrupted electricity supply, a backup generator of not less than 40kVA, CCTV cameras, and a holding room for candidates.
Njoagwuani explained that the transition would reduce logistics costs, improve exam security, and expand accessibility.
“We started two years ago with the private candidates’ exam, and this year’s second series is fully computer-based with no option for pen and paper. By next year, the school candidates’ exam will also be fully CBT,” he said.
Port Harcourt Zonal Coordinator of WAEC, Mr. Adeniran-Amusan Akim, urged schools to begin immediate upgrades, warning that those unable to meet the standards would have their candidates posted to designated centres.
Similarly, the Rivers State Chairman of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Mr. Sunday Jaja, encouraged school owners to take advantage of Bank of Industry and Federal Government MSME funds to finance the transition.
“Technology is shaping modern education. This initiative will help schools keep pace with global trends and better prepare students for the digital era,” he said.
Highlights of the sensitization event included the donation of ICT gadgets, such as computers, printers, and tablets, to schools through a raffle draw.
