Reps suspend 2026 WASSCE CBT plan
The House of Representatives has instructed the Federal Ministry of Education and the West African Examinations Council to swiftly halt the planned implementation of Computer-Based Testing for the 2026 examination.
Additionally, the House has called on the Ministry of Education, collaborately with state governments, to ensure that the budgets for 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2029 allocate funds for hiring computer instructors, building computer labs with internet access, providing backup generators, and assessing private schools' preparedness before rolling out the CBT policy in 2030.
This decision was reached following an urgent motion presented by Rep. Kelechi Wogu during Thursday’s session. The motion was titled “Need for Intervention to Avert the Pending Massive Failure of Candidates Intending to Write the 2026 WAEC Examination Using Computer-Based Testing, Capable of Causing Depression and Deaths of Students.”
During the debate, Rep. Wogu emphasized that WAEC is responsible for administering the examinations that qualify students for higher education, noting that many institutions require candidates to achieve a minimum of five credits, including English and Mathematics, in WAEC for admission.
The lawmaker recalled that the portal for WAEC results in 2025 was temporarily closed due to “technical glitches,” causing distress for numerous candidates.
Rep. Wogu expressed his worry that the Ministry of Education is adamant about introducing CBT for the 2026 examination in spite of objections from the Nigeria Union of Teachers and school leaders, particularly in rural areas where over 70 percent of students are situated.
He pointed out: “The House understands that computer-based exams necessitate fully equipped halls with operational computers, internet connectivity, and reliable electricity—either through the national grid or backup generators.”
Rep. Wogu mentioned that around 25,500 schools across the nation are anticipated to submit candidates for the 2026 examination, which is set to occur over four months, from March to July. He highlighted that most schools, especially those in rural regions, do not have functional computers and qualified computer instructors.
The lawmaker further contended that unlike the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, WAEC candidates are required to undertake a minimum of nine subjects, including practical, objective, and theoretical components, rendering a rushed shift to CBT unfeasible.
He cautioned that an early implementation of the policy could result in widespread failure, frustration, depression, and social issues among students. He advocated for at least three years of preparation before the policy is rolled out in the 2029–2030 academic session.
The House approved the motion unanimously and directed 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.
Leave A Comment