The Vice-Chancellor of Anchor University, Lagos, Professor Samuel Bandele, has urged the Federal Government to approach the proposed full adoption of Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for all West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) assessments with caution.
Speaking during an interaction with journalists in Lagos, Prof. Bandele—an expert in Test and Evaluation—warned that while the directive is a welcome innovation aimed at curbing malpractice and improving credibility, it must be implemented through thorough and strategic planning.
He noted that although the initiative could introduce greater discipline and efficiency to the conduct of secondary school exams, the lack of necessary infrastructure in many schools poses a major challenge, especially ahead of the May/June 2026 examination cycle.
“It’s a noble idea, but we must build a solid foundation first,” he said. “Many schools are not equipped to handle the essay components of WAEC and NECO exams through CBT. If we rush the process, we risk damaging the integrity we’re trying to restore.”
Prof. Bandele emphasised the distinction between WAEC and NECO as achievement tests, which evaluate students’ ability to express ideas, construct arguments, and demonstrate innovation—particularly in essay-based assessments. He contrasted this with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) exams, which are screening tests designed to manage limited admission slots.
“There is a significant difference between achievement tests and screening tests. Reducing WAEC and NECO to purely objective formats just to fit the CBT model would diminish their quality and undermine their purpose,” he warned.
Commenting on recent criticisms of JAMB following technical glitches in the 2024 exam results, Bandele dismissed calls for the body’s scrapping. He instead praised the JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, for his professionalism and reforms.
“Prof. Oloyede has brought remarkable transformation to JAMB. His leadership deserves commendation, not condemnation,” Bandele said.
He concluded by calling for a collaborative and phased approach to digital examination reforms, ensuring that all stakeholders—especially schools and students—are adequately prepared.
