WAEC Introduces Computer-Based Testing Option, Cites Reasons

The WAEC has announced that the November 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will offer candidates the choice of Computer-Based Test and Paper-Based Test.

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced that the November 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will offer candidates the choice between Computer-Based Tests (CBT) and Paper-Based Tests, marking a significant shift in exam format.

Dr. Amos Dangut, the Head of National Office for WAEC in Nigeria, unveiled this decision during a press briefing in Ibadan, emphasizing the rationale behind the transition.

According to Dr. Dangut, the introduction of the computer-based format follows the successful conduct of the first edition of the CB-WASSCE in January/February, which showed improved performance and a notable reduction in malpractice incidents from 5% to 0.8%.

Candidates, particularly private candidates taking the November WASSCE, will now have the flexibility to opt for either CB-WASSCE or the traditional paper-based test, as reported by The Guardian.

This initiative aligns with WAEC’s broader vision to expand access to computer-based examinations, especially in rural areas. Dr. Dangut highlighted ongoing efforts to provide necessary infrastructure and training to schools, with the ultimate goal of transitioning all schools to computer-based testing in collaboration with the Federal Government and other stakeholders.

“The examination, held in January and February, yielded better performance compared to the previous year, with a significant decrease in malpractices from five per cent to 0.8 per cent. “We are now gearing up for the upcoming private candidates’ examination in October and November, offering candidates the choice between the traditional pen and paper and the computer-based method,” Dangut said. Speaking furtehr, he added that the initiative was aimed at expanding computer-based examination to rural areas.

“It’s part of our plans to eventually implement computer-based examinations for all schools, in collaboration with the Federal Government and other stakeholders. “We are also working on providing necessary facilities and training for schools to facilitate this transition,’’ he said.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, LEGIT.NG