The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has achieved a remarkable milestone in its fight against examination malpractice, reducing the rate from 4.16% in the previous year to an unprecedented 0.8%. This achievement, driven by the integration of advanced technological measures, marks a significant step toward ensuring credibility and transparency in the examination process.
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The Turning Point in WAEC’s Reforms
In a recent media engagement, Dr. Amos Dangut, Head of National Office at WAEC, highlighted the pivotal role of the Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CBWASSCE) in this transformation. Describing it as a “hybrid system,” Dr. Dangut explained that candidates now answer objective questions digitally while essay and practical components are completed traditionally on answer boards.
This innovative approach has effectively curbed malpractice and improved the integrity of the examination process. “The CBWASSCE demonstrates our readiness to embrace change. It’s a testament to our commitment to transparency and efficiency,” Dr. Dangut noted.
Technological Interventions at the Forefront
WAEC has introduced several cutting-edge measures to sustain this success and further minimize malpractice:
- Electronic Marking Systems (EMS): Scores are now directly inputted into computers by examiners, eliminating manual processes that could be prone to errors or manipulation.
- CCTV Surveillance: Examination halls in many schools are now monitored through CCTV, a measure supported by both institutions and state governments.
- Mobile Device Scanners: Advanced scanning devices have been deployed to prevent the smuggling of unauthorized items into exam venues.
- E-Learning Platform: WAEC has launched a comprehensive e-learning platform featuring categorized past questions for science, arts, and business subjects. These resources aim to enhance student preparation and teacher efficiency through mock tests and practice sessions.
Expanding the Computer-Based Assessment
Dr. Dangut also revealed WAEC’s ambition to extend computer-based assessments to more schools across the region. He emphasized that this expansion would require significant support from stakeholders to bridge infrastructure gaps, particularly in underserved areas.
Studies conducted by WAEC indicate that students in these regions possess sufficient computer literacy to adapt to digital assessments. However, the availability of essential infrastructure, such as computers and reliable internet access, remains critical.
A Call for Collaborative Action
To maintain this momentum, WAEC has called on stakeholders—including government agencies, private organizations, and educational institutions—to invest in the necessary infrastructure. “Collaboration is essential to ensure inclusivity and bridge gaps in access,” Dr. Dangut remarked.
Building on Progress
The council’s technological strides underscore its commitment to eliminating malpractice while enhancing the overall educational experience for students. By leveraging tools such as EMS, CCTVs, and e-learning platforms, WAEC is setting a benchmark for examination integrity across the region.
With plans to further modernize its assessment processes and a clear roadmap for achieving inclusivity, WAEC is poised to redefine the standards of academic credibility in West Africa.
For more details on this transformative journey, visit the official WAEC report at Vanguard.
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