Education

WAEC outlines conduct of 2026 Computer-Based WASSCE

By Clifford Ejenavi The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has unveiled details of how the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will be conducted under the newly introduced Computer-Based Testing (CBT) system. According to the Head of National Office (HNO), WAEC Nigeria, Dr. Amos Dangut, the move marks a historic shift from paper-and-pencil…

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By Clifford Ejenavi

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has unveiled details of how the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will be conducted under the newly introduced Computer-Based Testing (CBT) system.

According to the Head of National Office (HNO), WAEC Nigeria, Dr. Amos Dangut, the move marks a historic shift from paper-and-pencil testing to full digital assessment, designed to enhance transparency, efficiency, and global competitiveness.

Dr. Dangut confirmed that the 2026 CB-WASSCE will be conducted in phases, beginning with multiple-choice questions, followed by theory and practical components. Objective tests will be answered directly on computer screens, while essay-type questions will also be typed in, supported by secure digital platforms that allow candidates to submit responses in real time.

To ensure inclusivity, WAEC is working with state governments, school proprietors, and stakeholders to establish CBT centres in all 774 local government areas. Each centre will be equipped with reliable electricity supply, backup generators, internet connectivity, and trained personnel. Candidates will be assigned centres closest to their schools to reduce travel challenges.

WAEC noted that mock tests and online practice platforms will be made available before the exams, enabling students to gain familiarity with the digital format.

The Council assured that the digital system will significantly reduce examination malpractice. Each candidate will log in with a unique ID, and questions will be randomly shuffled to prevent duplication. Monitoring tools and CCTV installations at centres will further strengthen security and uphold the integrity of the examinations.

The Federal Ministry of Education and the National Assembly have thrown their weight behind the transition. The Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, described the model as “a step toward global best practices,” while lawmakers called for proper funding and oversight to ensure no candidate is left behind.

WAEC disclosed that results from pilot CB-WASSCE in 2024 and 2025 showed improved performance compared to paper-based formats, attributing this to speed, user-friendly interfaces, and reduced exam stress.

Dr. Dangut therefore reiterated that the Council’s priority is equity, saying, “No Nigerian child, whether in the city or in rural communities, will be left out of the 2026 CB-WASSCE.”

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