The West African Examinations Council has unveiled the key facilities schools must provide as it prepares to fully migrate the West African Senior School Certificate Examination to computer-based testing by 2026.
Head of Examinations, WAEC, Mr Lucky Njoagwuani, made the announcement on Thursday during a sensitisation event in Port Harcourt.
He listed the new requirements clearly. “Schools must put in place a minimum of 250 functional laptops with 10 per cent backups, a robust computer server capable of supporting 250 systems simultaneously, and a Local Area Network setup,” Njoagwuani said.
Other mandatory items include uninterrupted electricity supply, functional air conditioners, CCTV cameras, a holding room for candidates, and a backup generator of at least 40kVA capacity.
Why WAEC Is Moving to CBT
Njoagwuani explained that the switch would cut logistics costs, improve security, and expand access for students across the sub-region.
“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,” he said.
The Port Harcourt Zonal Coordinator of WAEC, Mr Adeniran-Amusan Akim, urged schools to start upgrading their ICT centres immediately. He stressed that “the CBT system is here to stay.”
He warned that schools unable to meet the conditions would have to use designated centres. “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 stated.
Schools Told to Seek Funding Support
The Rivers State Chairman of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools, Mr Sunday Jaja, advised school owners to seek financing from the Bank of Industry and the Federal Government’s MSME intervention fund.
“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,” Jaja said.
The sensitisation event was jointly organised by Teadro Systems Ltd, NAPPS, and partners including the Bank of Industry, HP, Lenovo, and Canon.
The highlight was the donation of ICT gadgets such as computers, printers, and tablets to schools through a raffle draw.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article and Follow us on our social media handles. You can also Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
