WAEC Explores Digital Exams to Combat Cheating Concerns
The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), as part of efforts to curb malpractice in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), is considering the introduction of computer-based testing (CBT).
With computer-based testing, candidates would sit for their examinations using computers instead of the traditional paper-based format.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Friday, September 12, 2025, WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, Mr. John Kapi, revealed that the Council has already held technical discussions on the proposal and intends to pilot it with a smaller exam before rolling it out nationwide.
“Gradually, we are also thinking about computer-based testing, which is something that we have thought about. We have had a technical committee meeting. We want to pilot that with one of our small examination, the general and advanced business certificate examination,” Mr. Kapi said.
“This is an examination that does not have a large candidature, so we can manage them at the regional capital, where we are sure of internet connectivity, and once we are able to do that, we believe we can begin the process, so that if that works, we can replicate.”
Meanwhile, at least 14 people — including teachers, students, and invigilators — have so far been arrested across the country in connection with the ongoing WASSCE.
