UNIBEN boosts learning with indigenous CBT software development

University of Benin (UNIBEN) has up the ante in technology development in Nigeria with the development of indigenous software for the conduct of Computer Based Test (CBT).

The varsity, according to a statement issued after holding its seven day program tagged: “ICT Week”, with the theme: “Bridging the Gap in Teaching and Learning using ICT Infrastructures/ Solutions”, held at the University Main Campus, Ugbowo, showcased the activities of the Information Communication and Technology/Central Records Processing Unit (ICT/CRPU), brought to the fore: educational IT solutions; enhance capacity building and contribution to manpower; cost effective ICT solution; enhanced e-books using tablets, among others.

According to the varsity, since Prof. F.F.O. Orumwense became its vice-chancellor, UNIBEN has changed and enhanced the Information Communication and Technology/Central Records Processing Unit (ICT/CRPU) to become more technologically advanced and up to date with the latest ICT equipment.

According to the tertiary institution, the ICT/CRPU unit has enjoyed huge support from the Federal Government in the deployment of ultra modern ICT infrastructures such as the Cisco switch, racks and optic fibre. The ICT Network Operation Centre (NOC) room of the university has also been upgraded to an international standard that can accommodate the 155 mpps.

“It must be put on record that the software for CBT was indigenously developed by the University of Benin ICT Unit, making the university the first University in Nigeria to develop and use it to conduct examinations”, the varsity stated.

The statement informed that the enhancement of the ICT Unit has also been extended to various units and departments of the university with the provision of the E-learning multimedia teaching programs, which will aid teaching and learning process. This innovation further prompted the university to approve the establishment of a paperless senate meeting and result presentation, which is to be powered by online application using intranet connectivity.

The administration of the university also linked all faculties, units/hostels with fibre optics for the enhancement of Internet connectivity 24/7. The unit is also equipped with a video conferencing room with latest infrastructure that can conveniently seat 20 people.

The major administrative sectors were not left out as the management approved the computerization of the Registry and Bursary Department for seamless operations as well as enhancing the service delivery and the growth of the university.

In a bid to further promote the university internally generated revenue (IGR) the management has remodeled the Distance Learning Centre, which is now enjoying the full support of the university.

In compliance with the spirit of computer based entrance examinations being advocated by JAMB, the University of Benin has effectively keyed into the initiative, as its PUTME and PUDE examinations are now full computer based. The CBT software has been used to conduct the 2015/2016 Jamb examinations, which received commendations from staff as well as relevant stakeholders and observers. The ICT Unit has helped to conduct examinations in other institutions within Nigeria.