14 November 2025
The House of Representatives has directed the Federal Ministry of Education and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to suspend the planned introduction of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination.
The directive followed a motion moved by Kelechi Wogu, citing concerns that the CBT format would lead to widespread failure, frustration, and mental distress among students, particularly in rural areas where schools lack functional computer laboratories, internet access, and trained ICT teachers.
*Key Highlights:*
– *Suspension of CBT*: House of Representatives orders suspension of WAEC’s CBT plan for 2026 examination.
– *Infrastructure challenges*: Many schools, especially in rural areas, lack necessary facilities and trained personnel to support CBT.
– *Implementation timeline*: House directs that CBT system should not be implemented before the 2030 academic year.
– *Budget allocation*: Ministry of Education and state governments directed to include provisions for recruiting computer teachers, constructing ICT halls, and installing internet facilities in their budgets.
*Background:*
– *CBT introduction*: WAEC announced plans to adopt CBT for West African Senior School Certificate Examination starting in 2026.
– *Debate and concerns*: Teachers, parents, and education unions expressed concerns about the readiness of schools, particularly in rural areas.
– *Requirements for CBT*: WAEC listed necessary facilities, including functional laptops, computer servers, internet connectivity, and backup power supply.
*Next Steps:*
– *Committee engagement*: House of Representatives’ committees to engage stakeholders and report back within four weeks.
– *Legislative action*: Further action to be taken based on the committee’s report.
