The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) is transitioning the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) to a fully computer-based testing format by 2026. WAEC’s Head of National Office, Dr. Amos Dangut, confirmed this during a sensitization meeting with the National Assembly Committee on Education in Abuja. The shift began with private candidates in 2024 and has shown significant progress, with five exams already conducted successfully.
The computer-based testing (CBT) format aims to reduce exam malpractices, increase result processing speed, and provide a more accurate assessment of students’ knowledge. According to Dangut, candidates’ performance in CBT has been empirically better than in traditional paper-based tests. The Federal Government has also confirmed its support for the initiative, stating that privately-owned CBT centers and public institutions will be used for the exams, similar to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) model.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the reform ensures fairness, transparency, and a level playing ground for every child, regardless of background. WAEC has assured stakeholders that infrastructure challenges and cyber risks will not derail the initiative, having successfully conducted exams in remote areas without disruptions.
