The West African Examination Council (WAEC) in Nigeria has announced plans to gradually eliminate the use of paper in its exams. Dr. Amos Dangut, Head of National Office, shared this update after inspecting the ongoing West African Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in Abeokuta.
Dr. Dangut, accompanied by Mrs. Mariam Oloko, the Permanent Secretary of Ogun Ministry of Education, revealed that WAEC intends to introduce electronic devices at recognized exam centers across Nigeria. This move aims to eventually replace paper-based exams with computer-based testing (CBT).
“We are saying that in the future, we are going to give this provision where schools that have facilities to do computer-based testing will take the examination on the computer, while those that are not ready will do the pen and paper,” Dangut explained.
He emphasized that the deployment of these devices will help eliminate paper registration and detect various forms of exam malpractice.
WAEC plans to work closely with the Ministry of Education to establish a timeline for this transition.
“We will work in consultation with the Ministry of Education to have a timeline for this. When the time comes, we shall roll it out,” Dangut added.
During his visit, Dangut assessed the preparedness of schools and students, expressing satisfaction with their efforts. However, he noted the need for larger laboratories and sufficient equipment to cater to students adequately. Over 1.8 million candidates sat for the WASSCE across Nigeria.
Mrs. Oloko highlighted that the Ogun State government, under Gov. Dapo Abiodun, has already started online registration for students in both public and private schools.
“The administration has commenced the process of online registration of pupils, ensuring continuous upgrading of Information Communication Technology (ICT) and other facilities in public schools to prepare teachers and students,” Oloko stated.
WAEC’s move towards digital exams represents a significant shift in the administration of secondary school examinations in Nigeria, aiming to modernize the process and reduce issues associated with paper-based testing.