The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced plans to commence computer-based examinations, tagged CB-WASSCE, beginning next year.
The new system, which will combine both digital and manual components, is scheduled to take off with the current Senior Secondary School 3 (SS3) students across the country. According to the Council, the initiative is aimed at curbing examination malpractice and strengthening the integrity of its assessments.
Speaking during a sensitisation rally in Port Harcourt to educate stakeholders, students, and the public about the innovation, the Zonal Coordinator of WAEC, Port Harcourt Office, Mr. Adeniran Amusan, said the digitalisation drive would eliminate examination leakages, ensure timely conduct of exams, and enhance efficiency.
Amusan said, “The CB-WASSCE will eradicate the problem of logistics and late arrival of papers. The computer will also time the students, thereby ensuring fairness and transparency.”
He explained that the new method is a hybrid system, in which the objective questions will be taken on the computer, while the essay and practical components will continue to be written manually on answer booklets.
“The essence is that students will not be surcharged. It is faster and will eliminate logistics issues relating to late arrival of papers,” he added.
The WAEC official noted that the initiative aligns with global best practices and will prepare Nigerian students for technology-driven assessments in the future.
He urged schools, teachers, parents, and students to embrace the new system as part of the ongoing modernisation of education in the country.
Meanwhile, reactions from students have been mixed. While some commended the initiative as a step toward digital literacy and examination integrity, others expressed concern over their limited exposure to computer usage.
However, many expressed optimism that the CB-WASSCE will promote technological advancement and foster a new era of modern education in Nigeria.
