Nigerian Lawmakers Urge Suspension of WAEC’s Computer-Based Testing Plan for 2026 Exams
The House of Representatives has called for an immediate halt to the West African Examinations Council’s (WAEC) plan to introduce Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), warning that the premature rollout could trigger widespread academic failure and severe psychological distress among students.
This decisive move came after lawmakers adopted a motion of urgent public importance presented by Hon. Kelechi Nworgu on Thursday. The legislator urged his colleagues to intervene in what he characterized as a looming educational disaster.
Rushed Digital Transition Raises Concerns
While presenting his motion, Nworgu acknowledged the successful implementation of CBT by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). However, he emphasized that the operational realities facing most Nigerian secondary schools make such a transition for WAEC examinations in 2026 fundamentally premature.
The lawmaker expressed particular concern that the Federal Ministry of Education continues to pursue this plan despite vocal opposition from the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and numerous school administrators. He argued that the policy would disproportionately disadvantage millions of students, especially those in rural communities who lack basic access to computers, stable electricity, and internet connectivity.
A Digital Divide Too Wide to Ignore
“How can we expect students who have never touched a computer to successfully navigate nine different subjects, including complex theory and practical examinations, through a digital interface?” Nworgu questioned during the session.
He painted a stark picture of the infrastructural deficit, noting that the vast majority of Nigeria’s estimated 25,500 secondary schools, particularly those in rural areas, do not possess functional computer laboratories or qualified computer science instructors.
The legislator warned that pushing forward without adequate preparation would have devastating consequences, potentially leading to mass failure, student frustration, increased drug abuse, and other dangerous social vices among the youth demographic.
A Call for a Phased Implementation
Instead of the proposed 2026 deadline, Nworgu proposed a more realistic three-year deferment. He suggested that a proper transition to computer-based examinations should commence around the 2029–2030 academic session, allowing sufficient time for the necessary infrastructure and human capacity to be established nationwide.
In response to these compelling arguments, the House formally directed both WAEC and the Federal Ministry of Education to suspend the planned CBT introduction immediately.
Building a Foundation for Digital Learning
Looking toward a sustainable solution, the lower legislative chamber urged the Federal Government to use the 2026 budget cycle as a starting point for a comprehensive digital education overhaul. This initiative would include provisions for:
The recruitment and training of qualified computer teachers.
The construction of dedicated computer halls with reliable internet access.
The provision of standby power generators to mitigate Nigeria’s persistent electricity challenges.
To ensure accountability, the House mandated its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour, Employment and Productivity to engage with all relevant stakeholders in the education and technology sectors. These committees are expected to report back with their findings and recommendations within four weeks for further legislative action.
All credit goes to the original article, for more information read the: Source link