Education ministry vows inclusive access as WAEC goes fully CBT
The Federal Ministry of Education has officially announced that the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) will fully transition to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) by 2026, marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s examination system.
The Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, made this declaration during an inspection visit to WAEC’s pilot CBT centres at Bankys Schools and Government Secondary School, Apo. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring equity, innovation, and excellence, stressing that no student—regardless of location—will be left behind in the transition to digital examinations.
The minister explained that the move to CBT is aimed at tackling long-standing challenges such as examination malpractice, impersonation, and logistical delays. With each candidate receiving a unique set of questions, the CBT model will promote fairness and enhance the credibility of academic assessments.
Students who participated in the pilot phase praised the system for its efficiency and reduced stress compared to traditional paper-based exams. Many noted faster completion times and fewer distractions.
To address infrastructural and digital literacy gaps, especially in rural areas, the Ministry is collaborating with stakeholders including WAEC, JAMB, and state governments. Plans are underway to leverage existing CBT facilities and provide simplified user interfaces, ensuring accessibility for all students. For instance, a custom-designed digital slate will allow essay responses in a format similar to traditional handwriting, while objective questions can be answered using basic key selections.
Dr. Amos Josiah Dangut, Head of WAEC National Office in Nigeria, affirmed that feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive. He described the development as a promising leap toward a more modern, secure, and efficient examination system.
The Ministry is urging parents, teachers, and the general public to support the initiative, which is poised to transform the landscape of educational assessment in Nigeria.
