The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has said that computer-based testing is helping to reduce examination malpractice, as more than 56,000 candidates participate in the 2026 Second Series West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for Private Candidates across Nigeria.
The development comes as Nigeria continues to explore ways to improve the credibility of public examinations and make the assessment process more reliable for students, schools and institutions.
Computer-based testing allows candidates to answer questions using computers rather than relying entirely on traditional paper examination methods. The format can also support more organised examination administration and help examination authorities monitor candidates during tests.
For many Nigerian students, examination results play an important role in determining admission into universities, polytechnics and other higher institutions. This makes the credibility of examinations a major concern for parents, teachers and education authorities.
Examination malpractice has remained a challenge within the education system, with concerns ranging from impersonation to unauthorised assistance during examinations. Efforts to strengthen supervision and introduce more technology into the process are intended to protect the value of examination certificates.
However, the effectiveness of computer-based examinations will also depend on adequate computer facilities, reliable electricity, proper candidate preparation and sufficient technical support at examination centres.
WAEC’s latest comments suggest that technology could play a greater role in the future of examinations across the country. As more candidates become familiar with digital testing, education stakeholders will be watching to see whether the approach can improve fairness, efficiency and public confidence in examination results.
