WAEC Addresses Concerns and Clarifies Computer-Based Testing for WASSCE

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has responded to recent criticisms and concerns regarding the adoption of the Computer-Based Testing (CBT) model for the West African Senior School Certificate Examinations (WASSCE). The controversy arose after the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYF) called for the rejection of the new model, claiming it would lead to mass failure, particularly for students in rural areas.

In a statement, WAEC clarified that it had not announced the adoption of the CBT model for school candidates but only for private candidates starting from January 31. The examination body emphasized that the model’s introduction is exclusive to the First Series of the Private Candidates’ examination and is currently conducted in urban areas.

Acknowledging the criticisms, WAEC stated that the rejection agitation was based on a false narrative, and the CBT model would not be applied to the WASSCE for school candidates at this time. The Head of National Office, WAEC Nigeria, Amos Dangut, clarified that there is a need for infrastructure, resources, and adequate training before implementing the CBT for school candidates.

WAEC assured candidates of measures in place to sensitize them about the requirements for the upcoming CB-WASSCE and announced the conduct of trial tests and a free mock examination for prospective candidates to familiarize themselves with the testing environment.

In a separate statement, Dr. Amos Josiah Dangut, the Head of National Office for WAEC, affirmed that the accredited CBT centers for the WASSCE were reliable, seamless, and user-friendly. He emphasized the readiness of the centers, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, experienced personnel, and backup systems to ensure a smooth examination process. Dangut also assured candidates that internet connectivity issues would be addressed locally within each center.

To further ease concerns and provide hands-on experience, WAEC plans to conduct a free mock CBT for WASSCE candidates and initiate a comprehensive sensitization campaign through various media platforms.

As WAEC prepares for the introduction of CBT in its examinations, the emphasis remains on ensuring a positive and seamless experience for all candidates participating in the upcoming WASSCE.