The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has conducted a trial test in essay writing as part of preparations for the Computer-Based WASSCE for School Candidates scheduled to begin in 2026.
The exercise, supervised by the Head of WAEC’s Nigeria National Office, Dr Amos Dangut, took place on Thursday at the WAEC Training and Testing Centre in Ogba, Lagos.
Senior secondary school students participated in the trial, which was designed to familiarise them with the upcoming computer-based examination format that will combine both objective and essay components.
Dr Dangut explained that the initiative aims to prepare candidates for full digital examination participation while gradually addressing technological disparities among schools nationwide.
He described the students’ participation as historic, noting that they were the first to attempt a full computer-based test combining both objective and essay sections.
WAEC reaffirmed in September its commitment to migrating the WASSCE to a fully computer-based format by 2026. The transition, which began with private candidates in 2024, has made what the council described as “significant progress” and will be expanded nationwide ahead of next year’s deadline.
Dr Dangut stated that while some schools will sit for both components online, those without adequate computer facilities will continue with the traditional paper-based essay format.
“Our goal is to create an inclusive system where every student can write conveniently, regardless of location,” he said.
He assured candidates that the new system would enhance efficiency, accessibility, and fairness, while maintaining the integrity and credibility of WAEC’s examinations.
Dr Dangut urged students to embrace digital learning, describing technology-driven examinations as the future of education and a vital step towards global competitiveness.