The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has made a significant stride by announcing the adoption of the Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode for the upcoming Senior School Certificate Examinations (SSCE). This transformative decision is part of WAEC’s commitment to aligning with global best practices in educational assessments.
In a statement released on Monday and signed by the acting head of the Public Affairs Unit of WAEC, Moyosola Adesina, the council outlined its plan to introduce the CBT mode, starting with the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for private candidates scheduled for February 2024.
The statement emphasized the shift from the traditional Paper and Pencil Test to Computer-Based Examination (CBE), reflecting WAEC’s dedication to embracing technological advancements in the educational sector.
While acknowledging the pioneering move by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in adopting the CBT mode for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), WAEC had previously cited the complex nature of its examinations, particularly the extensive number of subjects and practical components, as obstacles to the transition.
The announcement marks a significant evolution for the 72-year-old institution, which stands as the oldest examination body in the West African sub-region. WAEC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its examinations, evidenced by globally accepted results for admissions and various opportunities, reinforces its status as a respected and trusted examination authority.