The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has conducted a computer-based promotional examination for 6,000 directorate cadre staff under the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC). The exercise, which took place on Thursday, was also conducted for candidates in the United Kingdom, the United States, India, and Egypt.
According to JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, the examination marked a significant step towards improving transparency and efficiency in civil service promotions. The computer-based test (CBT) format was designed to be user-friendly, allowing candidates familiar with mobile phones to easily navigate the exam.
The international reach of the examination demonstrated JAMB’s capacity to deploy technology effectively and conduct credible assessments for government institutions. The initiative is expected to reduce apprehension among civil servants about using computers for official assessments. Many candidates who were initially anxious about the CBT format appeared more confident after understanding the process, describing it as straightforward and accessible.
The Federal Civil Service Commission commended JAMB for its collaboration, noting that adopting digital examinations would enhance credibility and reduce malpractice in the system. Commissioner representing the FCT and Niger on the Federal Civil Service Commission, Dr. Hussaini Adamu, expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the exercise, which began on Wednesday with about 1,500 candidates taking part in three sessions.
The assessment was conducted in 10 centers across the Federal Capital Territory, equipped with CCTV cameras and functioning systems, providing a conducive environment for effective examination conduct. The Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, Prof. Adetunji Olaopa, noted that the initiative marked a significant step towards modernizing the nation’s civil service assessment system.
The collaboration with JAMB provided the technical confidence needed for the project, and the commission plans to expand the CBT method nationwide after evaluating the results of this initial exercise. The use of technology in civil service promotions is expected to enhance transparency, efficiency, and credibility, and this initiative is seen as a positive step towards achieving these goals. With the successful conduct of this examination, the Federal Civil Service Commission is poised to take a significant leap towards modernizing its assessment system.