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All Exams in Nigeria will be 100% Computer-Based Testing by 2027, Minister of Education Reveals

Published by Tope Fakinlede on January 24th, 2025.

All Exams in Nigeria will be 100% Computer-Based Testing by 2027, Minister of Education Reveals

The Federal Government aims to fully transition Nigeria’s examination system to computer-based testing (CBT) by 2027, according to the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa. He made this announcement during the launch of the Committee on the Improvement of Quality Examinations in Nigeria in Abuja.

Alausa stated that the committee’s primary role would be to address challenges in the education sector, standardize examination processes, and ensure fairness and quality. He reiterated the government’s commitment to combating exam malpractice and improving the quality of national educational assessments.

The minister emphasized that addressing exam leakages requires a comprehensive approach, highlighting that malpractices involve more than just students. He noted that parents, teachers, school principals, and even exam supervisors also play roles in perpetuating these issues.

To combat these problems, Alausa revealed that by 2027, all examinations would be conducted using computer-based platforms, supported by technological advancements. He acknowledged that such a shift could encounter resistance but insisted that it is necessary to make the system more secure and efficient.

The committee will also focus on tackling issues like identity theft and the local swapping of candidates during exams. Alausa mentioned that efforts to improve education quality will be backed by significant government investment in human capital development.

In addition, he announced that future examination certificates will include three key identifiers: national identification numbers, candidate photos, and birthdates, to prevent identity fraud. This change will be implemented in time for the May-June-July exams conducted by bodies like WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB.

Professor Is-haq Oloyede, Chairman of the committee and Registrar of JAMB, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the committee and pledged to work diligently to achieve the set goals.