The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has conducted a trial essay writing test in preparation for the introduction of the Computer-Based WASSCE for School Candidates in 2026.
The exercise, supervised by the Head of WAEC’s Nigeria National Office, Dr. Amos Dangut, was held 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 digital format that will combine both objective and essay components.
Dr. Dangut explained that the initiative aims to prepare students for full participation in computer-based examinations while gradually addressing the technological disparities among schools across the country.
He recalled that WAEC had, in September, reaffirmed its plan to transition the WASSCE to a fully computer-based format by 2026. The transition, which began with private candidates in 2024, has already recorded significant progress and will be expanded nationwide ahead of next year’s deadline.
Addressing the students, Dr. Dangut noted that they were making history as the first group to attempt a fully computer-based test that includes both objective and essay sections. He added that while some schools will take both components online, others without adequate computer access will continue with the traditional handwritten essay format.
“Our goal is to create an inclusive system where every student can write conveniently, regardless of location,” he said.
He assured that the new system would enhance efficiency, accessibility, and fairness in the conduct of examinations while ensuring a comfortable experience for all candidates.
Dr. Dangut reiterated WAEC’s commitment to upholding the integrity and credibility of its examinations and encouraged students to embrace digital learning, describing technology-driven examinations as the future of education and a pathway to global competitiveness.
