The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has taken a significant step towards digitalizing its examination process with a trial test on essay writing for the Computer-Based WASSCE for School Candidates, slated for 2026. The exercise, which was led by Dr. Amos Dangut, Head of WAEC’s Nigeria National Office, was conducted at the WAEC Training and Testing Centre in Ogba, Lagos, on Thursday.
Senior secondary school students participated in the trial, aimed at familiarizing them with the upcoming computer-based format that combines both objective and essay components. According to Dr. Dangut, this initiative is designed to prepare candidates for full digital examination participation, while bridging technological gaps among schools across the country. He emphasized that the students were making history as the first group to attempt a full computer-based test that includes both objectives and essays.
The trial test is part of WAEC’s efforts to create an inclusive system, where every student can write conveniently, regardless of their location. While some schools will take both components online, those in areas without computer access will continue with the traditional essay format. Dr. Dangut assured that the new system will make the examination more efficient and accessible, ensuring fairness and comfort for all participating candidates.
WAEC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and credibility of its examinations remains unchanged, as the council seeks to help students achieve academic excellence. Dr. Dangut urged students to embrace digital learning, describing technology-driven examinations as the future of education and a key to global competitiveness. The successful implementation of this initiative will likely have a significant impact on the education sector in West Africa, as it moves towards a more digitalized and inclusive examination system.
The trial test is a significant development in WAEC’s efforts to improve its examination processes, and it is expected to benefit students in the region. With the Computer-Based WASSCE for School Candidates scheduled for 2026, WAEC is on track to achieving its goal of creating a more efficient and accessible examination system. As the council continues to work towards this goal, it is likely that more schools and students will have access to digital examination platforms, paving the way for a more modern and inclusive education system in West Africa.