WAEC to gradually phase out paper-based exams

The West African Examination Council (WAEC) says it will gradually eliminate paper-based examinations.

Amos Dangut, head of WAEC’s national office, said electronic devices will be provided to all centres in the country for future exams.

He said the process would start in schools with electronic facilities and then gradually incorporate schools that do not have one.

Dangut also said this process will help detect malpractices and eliminate paper registration.

“We are saying that in the future, we are going to give this provision where schools that have facilities to do computer-based testing will take the examination on the computer where those that are not ready will do the pen and paper,” he said.

“We will consult with the Ministry of Education to have a timeline. When the time comes we shall roll it out.”

Mariam Oloko, permanent secretary of the education ministry, said Ogun state has started the online registration process in both public and private schools.

Olodo also said there will be continuous upgrades of information communication technology (ICT) facilities in schools to prepare teachers and students.

WAEC’s move is coming almost a year after the council adopted computer-based tests (CBT) in conducting its exams for private candidates.

It also comes as other exam bodies are considering frameworks to go digital.