The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced that it is in the advanced stages of introducing the Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode for the administration of its examinations. This development was disclosed by the Head of National Office (HNO), Patrick Areghan, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos.

Mr. Areghan, who is set to complete his three-year tenure on October 1, expressed his vision for the council to adopt the CBT mode in the near future. He acknowledged the challenges in implementing CBT for practical and essay papers, but emphasized the council’s commitment to transitioning to CBT, starting with objective questions.

However, he acknowledged that not all schools would be ready for CBT and suggested the possibility of a segregated market, where schools that cannot afford CBT would continue with the traditional pencil and paper mode. Mr. Areghan also expressed his desire to see a fully digitalized WAEC, with operations such as result checking and certificate verification being conducted online.

Furthermore, Mr. Areghan highlighted his aspirations for WAEC to have a stronger international presence. He expressed the need for Nigerian children in the diaspora to have the opportunity to sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) overseas. He also mentioned the digital certificate system introduced in Nigeria and expressed his desire to have it implemented across the sub-region. This digital certificate system would allow candidates to access their certificates from anywhere in the world.

Mr. Areghan also touted the achievements of his tenure, including the establishment of a Digital Security Printing Press, which he considers a valuable legacy for the council. He also mentioned internal initiatives, such as the Staff Bus scheme, aimed at alleviating the transportation challenges faced by staff.

Reflecting on his greatest achievement, Mr. Areghan pointed to the successful conduct of examinations and the timely release of results and certificates to deserving candidates. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the council was able to ensure the smooth running of examinations from 2020 to 2023.

The introduction of the CBT mode by WAEC is expected to enhance the efficiency and integrity of the examination process, providing candidates with a more convenient and technology-driven experience.

NAN