WAEC Offers Candidates Choice Between Computer-Based and Paper-Based Tests for November WASSCE
Dr. Dangut emphasized that this move is part of their long-term plan to implement computer-based tests for all schools, in collaboration with the Federal Government and other stakeholders.
Binye-lum 
In a significant development, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has introduced a new option for candidates taking the November West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). They now have the choice between Computer-Based Tests (CBT) and Paper-Based Tests. This decision was announced by Dr. Amos Dangut, the Head of WAEC's National Office in Nigeria, during his oversight of the ongoing WASSCE in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Dr. Dangut highlighted the success of the first edition of the computer-based WASSCE, also known as CB-WASSCE, held in January/February. He noted that this new approach resulted in improved performance compared to previous years, with a significant decrease in malpractices from five percent to 0.8 percent. Building on this success, WAEC aims to provide candidates sitting for the November examinations with the option to choose between the traditional paper-based test and the computer-based method.
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The introduction of the CBT option for WASSCE aligns with WAEC's broader goal of expanding computer-based examinations to rural areas. Dr. Dangut emphasized that this move is part of their long-term plan to implement computer-based tests for all schools, in collaboration with the Federal Government and other stakeholders. To support this transition, WAEC is working on providing necessary facilities and training for schools, ensuring equitable access to digital examination resources across different regions.
Despite initial skepticism, the transition to the CBT method has proven successful, with a significant reduction in malpractice rates. Dr. Dangut emphasized the importance of keeping pace with global technological advancements, stressing that equipping schools and candidates with the necessary skills for digital examinations is crucial for their future success. He expressed satisfaction with the monitoring of WASSCE in various schools in Ibadan, commending the candidates' preparedness and the conducive examination environment maintained by schools.
Stakeholders, including the National President of All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools of Nigeria (ANCOPSS), Mr. Muhammad Musa, lauded WAEC's proactive approach in ensuring credible and malpractice-free examinations. The monitoring of WASSCE reflects positively on the efforts of public schools in preparing teachers and students for the transition to computer-based testing. Overall, the introduction of the CBT option for WASSCE candidates signals a significant step towards enhancing examination integrity and preparing students for the digital era.
