24. November 2025 Admin

WAEC Confirms 2026 CBT Pilot for WASSCE Still on Track Amid Rumours

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has clarified that its planned computer-based testing (CBT) pilot for the May/June 2026 WASSCE remains scheduled, despite reports that the initiative has been suspended.

Quick Insight: WAEC says there has been no formal directive from the National Assembly to halt the computer-based WASSCE transition. Instead, the 2026 exam will serve as a **pilot phase**, with only schools that are ICT-ready participating.

1. How the Pilot Will Work

• Selected schools with adequate ICT infrastructure will take part in the 2026 CBT pilot.
• There will also be community-based CBT centres for schools that don’t yet have the needed setup.
• WAEC conducted a nationwide assessment and grouped schools by their computer-exam readiness to guide the rollout.

2. Why Some People Are Worried

• Some lawmakers argue that many schools lack reliable power, good internet, and enough computers, putting students at a disadvantage.
• There’s fear that rushing into full CBT could lead to technical failures or unfair results.
• WAEC insists, though, that the pilot is a gradual process and not a full switch — helping to ease the transition.

3. What This Means for Students & Schools

• For students: this is a chance to experience computer-based exams early — but only in participating schools.
• Schools involved in the pilot can use this time to test systems, train staff, and build capacity.
• Teachers and administrators will have to support students with new tools — digital pens, tablets or timed CBT interfaces.

Final Thoughts

WAEC’s confirmation is reassuring: the shift to CBT for WASSCE is *not cancelled*, just being phased in carefully. The pilot in 2026 is a critical step to make sure the system works, is fair, and doesn’t leave any students behind. As Nigeria moves toward digital exams, planning, infrastructure, and training must continue to be priorities.