WAEC has adjusted its timeline for the full rollout of the Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination, announcing that the transition will now take place in 2027.
The council explained that instead of launching the full computer-based format in 2026, it will use next year to conduct a pilot test for schools. This decision follows the directive issued by the House of Representatives asking WAEC to delay the computer-based exam until 2030.
During the Nigeria National Committee meeting on Thursday, WAEC recognised outstanding students from the May/June 2024 WASSCE. The overall best candidate was 18-year-old Ajisafe Olamilekan from Eemaan Foundation College in Osogbo, who scored eight A1s. Two other students, Onovo Joan from Ogun State and Mbah Mac-Donald from Anambra State, also secured eight A1s each and were presented with certificates, plaques and cash awards.
NNC Chairman, Hajiya Binta Abdulkadir, said the shift to 2027 marks an important phase in WAEC’s commitment to modernising assessment in line with global standards. She noted that the transition builds on the progress already achieved through the hybrid method used in the 2024 private candidates’ exam, where multiple-choice questions were answered directly on computer screens.
Abdulkadir assured stakeholders that no student will be disadvantaged by the transition. She revealed that WAEC is working closely with the Federal Ministry of Education to ensure a smooth migration to computer-based assessments. She added that students are already undergoing training with tablets and digital styluses to help them prepare for answering essay questions electronically.
Representing Abia State Governor Alex Otti, Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education Elder Goodluck Ubochi commended WAEC for its reforms aimed at strengthening exam credibility. Otti emphasised that Abia has made considerable progress in enhancing school infrastructure, improving teacher competence and prioritising policies that promote fairness and discipline in classrooms. He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting WAEC’s efforts toward maintaining high educational standards.
WAEC’s Head of National Office, Dr Amos Dangut, highlighted that the Nigeria National Committee remains the council’s top policy-making body in the country. He said the committee ensures that WAEC’s policies serve the public interest and that examinations are efficiently conducted nationwide. Dangut reaffirmed the council’s dedication to its 73-year legacy of delivering reliable assessments and contributing to the educational development of millions of students across West Africa.