The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to migrate all examinations conducted by WAEC, NECO, and other examination bodies to a Computer-Based Testing (CBT) platform within the next three years. This initiative aims to enhance examination security, efficiency, and credibility.
The development was revealed in a statement issued by the Director of Press, Federal Ministry of Education, Boriowo Folasade. It followed a strategic meeting convened by the Minister of Education, Mr. Maruf Alausa, with key stakeholders, including the Registrars of JAMB, NECO, the Head of WAEC’s National Office, and the Director of Senior Secondary Education.
Commitment to Examination Integrity
During the meeting, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance stance on examination malpractice, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the integrity of national assessments.
“We are committed to transitioning all achievement and placement examinations to a CBT platform within the next three years. This step will ensure a secure, efficient, and credible examination system that accurately reflects students’ achievements,” said Mr. Alausa.
He further disclosed that a committee has been established to tackle critical issues such as exam leakages, identity theft, fraud, and inadequate supervision. The committee is scheduled for formal inauguration in January 2025.
Addressing Malpractice Concerns
The Minister of State for Education, Mrs. Suwaiba Ahmad, expressed deep concern about unethical practices undermining Nigeria’s education system. Highlighting instances of students pooling funds to buy leaked answers and schools bribing officials, she described these acts as threats to academic integrity.
“These practices erode the credibility of our assessments and compromise the moral and intellectual development of students. The Ministry is committed to enforcing strict measures to combat malpractice and restore transparency in the examination process,” she stated.
Mrs. Ahmad called on all stakeholders to join forces in ensuring fairness and accountability in the nation’s education sector.
A Step Towards Educational Reform
The transition to CBT aligns with the government’s broader agenda of overhauling the education system to meet global standards. By addressing malpractice and leveraging technology, Nigeria aims to build a future where academic achievements are both credible and globally recognized.
