WAEC Hope to Transition to Virtual Testing for Senior School Certificate Examination

In a groundbreaking move, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has officially abandoned the traditional paper and pencil test model for the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE). The shift, aimed at embracing technological advancements in education, was disclosed in a statement signed by Moyosola Adesina, the acting head of the Public Affairs Unit of WAEC, and released on Monday.

Embracing Global Best Practices

The statement highlights that this significant innovation aligns with global best practices in the field of education. WAEC‘s decision to transition to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode reflects a commitment to keeping pace with the evolving landscape of educational assessment methods. The move is anticipated to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and overall examination experience for candidates.

Implementation WAEC Timetable and Scope

The phased implementation of the CBT model will commence with the West African Senior School Certificate Examination for private candidates scheduled for February 2024. The announcement provides a clear roadmap for the migration, indicating that subsequent examination diets for private candidates will also adopt the Computer-Based Examination format. This strategic rollout allows for a gradual adaptation to the new testing methodology.

Stakeholder Impact and Preparedness

As WAEC prepares to embark on this transformative journey, the implications for various stakeholders, including students, schools, and examination centers, cannot be overstated. The statement underscores the importance of informing the general public and stakeholders about the upcoming changes. Additionally, it encourages all relevant parties to familiarize themselves with the evolving examination format, emphasizing the need for adequate preparedness.

WAEC‘s decision to transition from traditional paper and pencil testing to Computer-Based Testing marks a significant milestone in the evolution of educational assessment in West Africa. This move positions WAEC as a trailblazer in adopting contemporary examination methods and underscores its commitment to providing a robust and forward-looking testing environment. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, this shift is poised to not only streamline examination processes but also equip students with digital literacy skills essential for the 21st-century workforce. The forthcoming implementation in February 2024 heralds a new era for the Senior School Certificate Examination, promising a more technologically advanced and globally competitive assessment platform.