CBT SHOULD BE POSTPONED TILL 2030, HOUSE OF REPS PLEADS WITH MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
The House of Representatives has ordered the Federal Ministry of Education and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to halt the planned introduction of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 examination with immediate effect.
The House of Representatives has ordered the Federal Ministry of Education and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to halt the planned introduction of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 examination with immediate effect.
The House further directed the Ministry, in collaboration with state governments, to make provisions in the 2026–2029 budgets for the recruitment of computer teachers, construction of ICT-equipped examination halls with internet access, installation of standby generators, and proper assessment of private schools’ readiness ahead of a full CBT implementation in 2030.
This resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by Rep. Kelechi Wogu, titled “Need for Intervention to Avert the Pending Massive Failure of Candidates Intending to Write the 2026 WAEC Examination Using Computer-Based Testing (CBT), Capable of Causing Depression and Deaths of Students”, during Thursday’s plenary.
Leading the debate, Rep. Wogu emphasized that WAEC examinations are crucial for students seeking admission into tertiary institutions, as candidates must obtain at least five credits, including English Language and Mathematics. He recalled that the 2025 WAEC result portal was temporarily shut down due to technical issues, which caused distress among many candidates.
Wogu expressed concern that despite strong opposition from the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and heads of schools—particularly in rural areas where over 70% of students reside—the Ministry of Education has remained determined to introduce CBT in 2026.
“The House recognizes that computer-based examinations require adequately equipped halls with functional systems, stable internet connectivity, and reliable electricity—either from the national grid or standby generators,” he stated.
He noted that approximately 25,500 schools are expected to present candidates for the 2026 WAEC examinations, scheduled to run from March to July. However, most of these schools, especially in rural regions, lack both functional computers and qualified computer science teachers.
The lawmaker added that, unlike JAMB examinations, WAEC tests cover up to nine subjects, including theory, objectives, and practical components—making an abrupt transition to CBT impractical.
He warned that implementing the policy prematurely could trigger widespread failure, frustration, depression, and even social unrest among students. He therefore recommended at least three years of preparation before the full adoption of CBT in the 2029–2030 academic session.
The House unanimously endorsed the motion and tasked its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour, Employment, and Productivity to engage with relevant stakeholders in the education and technology sectors and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
