…Directs Education Ministry, States to Prepare Schools For 2030 Rollout
From Victor Osula, Abuja
The House of Representatives has directed the Federal Ministry of Education and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to immediately suspend the planned commencement of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 examination cycle.
The lawmakers also urged the Ministry, in collaboration with state governments, to make adequate provisions in the 2026 to 2029 budget cycles for the recruitment of computer teachers, the construction of computer halls with internet facilities, the supply of standby generators, and the assessment of private schools’ readiness before implementing the CBT policy in 2030.
These followed the unanimous adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Rep. Kelechi Wogu, 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.”
Leading the debate at Thursday’s plenary, Rep. Wogu noted that WAEC examinations serve as a crucial qualification requirement for admission into higher institutions across Nigeria. He recalled that the 2025 WAEC result portal experienced temporary shutdowns due to “technical glitches,” which caused anxiety among candidates.
Wogu expressed concern that despite resistance from the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and school administrators—especially in rural areas where over 70 percent of students reside—the Ministry of Education has insisted on introducing CBT for the 2026 WAEC examinations.
“The House is cognisant that computer-based examinations require fully equipped halls with functional computers, internet access, and constant electricity—either from the national grid or standby generators”, he said.
Wogu further revealed that about 25,500 schools nationwide are expected to present candidates for the 2026 exams, which will run concurrently between March and July. However, most schools, particularly in rural communities, lack the necessary infrastructure, including functional computers and qualified computer teachers.
The lawmaker argued that, unlike the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), which conducts single-subject tests under CBT conditions, WAEC examinations involve nine subjects—comprising theory, objective, and practical components—making a rushed transition impractical.
He warned that premature implementation of the policy could lead to massive failure, frustration, depression, and possible mental health crises among students, and recommended a minimum three-year preparation period before full adoption of CBT in the 2029–2030 academic session.
Following deliberations, the House 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. The committees are expected to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
