Reps order WAEC to pause 2026 CBT exams over poor school preparedness
The House of Representatives has directed the West African Examination Council (WAEC) to suspend its plan to fully adopt computer-based testing (CBT) for the 2026 Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
The resolution followed concerns raised during Thursday’s plenary that many schools — especially in rural communities — lack the infrastructure and trained personnel required for the transition.
The motion, sponsored by Kelechi Wogu and adopted unanimously, warned that proceeding with the CBT rollout in its current form could lead to massive failure among candidates. The session was presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.
Wogu argued that WAEC examinations determine students’ eligibility for higher education, with most tertiary institutions requiring at least five credits, including English and Mathematics. He added that the technical glitches experienced on the 2025 WAEC result portal exposed gaps in the council’s readiness for a full digital switch.
He further noted that unlike JAMB tests, WAEC candidates write a minimum of nine subjects comprising theory, objectives and practicals — a complex structure that may complicate CBT administration.
The lawmaker warned that a rushed implementation could trigger frustration, depression and other social consequences for students. He proposed a minimum transition period of three years, suggesting full adoption in the 2029–2030 academic session.
The house subsequently mandated its committees on basic examination bodies, digital and information technology, basic education and labour to interface with relevant stakeholders and report back within four weeks.
WAEC, with federal government backing, had earlier announced plans to conduct the 2026 May/June examination using CBT, following partial deployment for private candidates in 2024.
