The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced that it will introduce Computer Based Testing (CBT) for the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) taken by private candidates starting in February 2024.
The council's Acting Head of National Office, Mr Patrick Areghan, said in a statement on Saturday that the decision was part of the council's efforts to improve the quality and credibility of its examinations.
He said that the CBT mode would be used for the objective questions, while the theory and practical papers would still be administered using the paper and pencil mode.
Areghan said that the CBT mode would enhance the security and integrity of the examination, as well as reduce the cost and time of marking and releasing results.
He added that the CBT mode would also provide a more convenient and flexible option for candidates who wish to take the examination at their own pace and convenience.
Areghan said that the council had already conducted a pilot test of the CBT mode in September 2023, involving 1,500 candidates from 10 centers across the country.
He said that the feedback from the pilot test was positive and encouraging and that the council was working on addressing the challenges and gaps identified.
He urged the stakeholders, especially the candidates, to embrace the new innovation and prepare adequately for the examination.
He assured that the council would provide adequate sensitisation and orientation for the candidates and other stakeholders before the commencement of the CBT mode.
He also said that the council would ensure that the CBT mode would be accessible, affordable and user-friendly for all candidates.
Areghan stated that the council is dedicated to maintaining its standards and excellence in conducting its examinations, and sought the support and cooperation of all stakeholders.