National Assembly Postpones WAEC’s CBT Adoption to 2030
The House of Representatives has ordered 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 WASSCE.
The decision came after lawmakers unanimously adopted an urgent motion moved by Kelechi Wogu, who warned that rushing into the CBT model could lead to mass failure, frustration, and mental distress among students, especially those in rural communities.
Wogu noted that over 70% of candidates come from areas where schools lack functional computer labs, reliable electricity, stable internet, and trained ICT teachers. He referenced the technical glitches that disrupted the 2025 WAEC results portal as evidence of systemic unpreparedness.
To address the gaps, the House directed federal and state education authorities to make budgetary provisions from 2026–2029 for ICT halls, computer teachers, internet facilities, and backup power systems. Lawmakers further recommended that CBT should not take full effect before 2030.
The House also mandated its committees on Basic Education, Digital Technology, Examination Bodies, and Labour to interface with stakeholders and report back within four weeks.
Although CBT was proposed to curb exam malpractice and modernize assessment, critics insist that the digital divide remains too wide, particularly for public and rural schools.
WAEC had earlier set strict ICT requirements, including 250 laptops, a robust server, CCTV cameras, uninterrupted power, and climate-controlled exam halls, sparking concern among school owners and unions.
Every child has the right to “education and equal access to educational opportunities.” Any policy that widens inequality, such as implementing CBT where schools lack minimum digital infrastructure, risks violating this right by placing disadvantaged children at an even greater learning and performance disadvantage.
