Lawmakers Cite Infrastructure Deficit in Rural Schools
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 May/June school examinations.
Lawmakers raised deep concerns that most schools, particularly in rural areas, lack the infrastructure and manpower required for such a transition. WAEC, with backing from the Federal Government, had earlier announced plans to conduct the 2026 examination using computers—following the partial rollout of the model for private candidates in 2024.
However, the House urged caution, emphasizing that the move, though innovative, must align with Nigeria’s current technological capacity.
“We Must Prevent a National Academic Disaster” — Wogu
The resolution came after lawmakers adopted a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Rep. Kelechi Wogu, titled:
“Need for Intervention to Avert the Pending Massive Failure of Candidates Intending to Write the 2026 WAEC Examination Using Computer-Based Testing (CBT), Capable of Causing Depression and Deaths of Students.”
Leading the debate, Wogu reminded members that WAEC conducts examinations qualifying students for higher education, adding that “most tertiary institutions require at least five credits—including English Language and Mathematics—for admission.”
He also recalled that the 2025 WAEC result portal suffered temporary shutdowns due to technical glitches, leaving many candidates anxious and distressed.
Expressing concern, he warned that despite resistance from the Nigeria Union of Teachers and heads of schools—especially in rural areas where “over 70 per cent of students are located”—the Ministry of Education had insisted on introducing CBT for the 2026 examination.
“The House is cognisant that computer-based examinations require fully equipped halls with functional computers, internet access, and constant electricity — either from the national grid or standby generators,” he said.
Lawmakers Recommend Gradual Transition by 2030
Following deliberations, the House urged both the Education Ministry and state governments to allocate funds in their 2026–2029 budgets for critical preparations. These include:
1. Recruitment of qualified computer teachers.
2. Construction of computer halls with internet access.
3. Provision of standby power supply.
4. Evaluation of private schools’ readiness before nationwide rollout.
Rep. Wogu noted that about 25,500 schools are expected to present candidates for the 2026 examination, which will span four months—from March to July. Yet, most of these schools lack the required infrastructure or trained personnel.
He further argued that WAEC examinations differ from JAMB since students must take at least nine subjects, including practicals and theory. Thus, he said, “a rushed transition to CBT is unrealistic and could lead to widespread failure, frustration, depression, and social vices among students.”
Consequently, he proposed a minimum of three years of preparation, targeting full implementation in the 2029–2030 academic session.
Committees to Engage Stakeholders
The House unanimously adopted the motion and directed its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour, Employment and Productivity to interface with education and technology stakeholders. The committees are to submit a report within four weeks for further legislative action.
Meanwhile, WAEC had maintained that its “CB-WASSCE: New Way, Same Destination” campaign was progressing well, citing the successful partial transition for private candidates in 2024. The council insists it is committed to modernizing assessment methods across West Africa.
Still, with the latest parliamentary directive, Nigeria’s full shift to computer-based secondary examinations now appears deferred—likely until 2030.