WAEC Lists Strict Requirements as WASSCE Goes Fully CBT by 2026

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has unveiled the mandatory facilities schools must put in place as the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) prepares to go fully computer-based by 2026.

Speaking during a sensitisation programme in Port Harcourt on Thursday, WAEC’s Head of Examinations, Mr. Lucky Njoagwuani, said schools would be required to provide a minimum of 250 functional laptops with an additional 10 per cent backup, as well as a robust computer server capable of supporting all systems simultaneously. He also highlighted the need for a Local Area Network, constant electricity, air conditioning, CCTV coverage, and a holding area for candidates.

He stressed that the transition would not only improve exam security but also reduce logistics expenses and give candidates wider access. “We started with the fourth series of our private candidate exam about two years ago, and it was successful. This year’s private candidate exam, second series, is fully computer-based with no option for pen and paper. Invariably, next year’s school candidate exam will be fully computer-based as well,” Njoagwuani said.

Port Harcourt Zonal Coordinator of WAEC, Mr. Adeniran-Amusan Akim, called on school owners to begin upgrading their ICT facilities immediately. He maintained that there would be no compromise on the required standards. “WAEC will not lower the standards. Any school that wants to host the exams within its premises must provide the required equipment and infrastructure,” Akim warned, adding that schools unable to comply would be moved to designated centres.

Also present at the event was the Rivers State Chairman of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Mr. Sunday Jaja, who encouraged proprietors to seek financial assistance to meet the new demands. “Technology is playing a vital role in modern education. This initiative will enable schools to stay abreast of current trends and prepare students for the digital age,” he said, urging school owners to explore funding opportunities from the Bank of Industry and the Federal Government’s MSME intervention fund.

The sensitisation session was jointly organised by Teadro Systems Ltd, NAPPS, and partners including HP, Lenovo, Canon, and the Bank of Industry. A raffle draw at the event saw schools receive ICT equipment such as laptops, tablets, and printers to aid the transition.