The House of Representatives has ordered the Federal Government to immediately suspend the West African Examinations Council’s (WAEC) proposed rollout of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), warning that the policy could trigger widespread exam failure, depression, and even suicides among students.
The directive came after the House adopted a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. Kelechi Nwogu on Thursday.
Nwogu argued that while the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has successfully implemented CBT, Nigeria’s secondary schools especially in rural areas lack the infrastructure, electricity, internet, and trained personnel to support such a shift by 2026.
“Over 25,500 schools, particularly in rural communities, have no functional computers or qualified ICT teachers. Millions of candidates who have never touched a computer will now be forced to sit nine theory and practical papers via CBT,” he said.
He described the timeline as “reckless,” predicting mass failure, frustration, drug abuse, and social unrest if implemented without preparation.
Nwogu urged a minimum three-year delay, targeting the 2029–2030 academic session for a phased transition.
The House directed WAEC and the Ministry of Education to halt the CBT plan and mandated budgetary provisions starting in 2026 for:
Recruitment of computer teachers
Construction of ICT labs with internet
Supply of standby generators in schools nationwide
It further tasked its Committees on Basic Examination Bodies, Digital and Information Technology, Basic Education and Services, and Labour, Employment and Productivity to consult stakeholders and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
