The House of Representatives on Thursday warned that the planned introduction of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) in 2026 could trigger widespread failure among students if implemented without adequate preparation.
The Guardian reports that WAEC is the body that develops and conducts the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for students in Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, The Gambia, and Liberia.
The lawmakers urged the Federal Ministry of Education and WAEC to suspend the rollout until schools across the country, particularly in rural areas, are equipped with computers, reliable power supply, internet connectivity, and qualified teachers to manage the digital examinations.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Rep. Kelechi Wogu during Thursday’s plenary presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.
The motion, 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,” observed concerns about the preparedness of schools nationwide.
WAEC, with the backing of the Federal Government, had earlier announced plans to conduct the 2026 May/June examination using computers, following the partial rollout of the model for private candidates in 2024.
But leading the debate, Wogu stressed that WAEC is responsible for conducting examinations that determine students’ eligibility for higher education, noting that most tertiary institutions require at least five credits, including English Language and Mathematics, for admission.
He recalled that the 2025 WAEC result portal had experienced technical glitches that left candidates distressed and questioned the council’s readiness for a full CBT transition.
“Computer-based examinations require fully equipped halls with functional computers, internet access, and reliable electricity either from the national grid or standby generators,” Wogu said.
The lawmaker also argued that, unlike the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exams, WAEC candidates are required to take at least nine subjects, including practicals, objectives, and theory.
Wogu warned that premature implementation could lead to widespread failure, frustration, depression, and even social vices among students.
He recommended a minimum of three years of preparation before the policy is fully implemented, targeting the 2029–2030 academic session.
The House unanimously adopted the motion and mandated its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour, Employment and Productivity to interface with relevant stakeholders in the education and technology sectors.
They are expected to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
