Northern Youths are incensed about the proposed switch to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams.
Under the auspices of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), Northerners have demanded an urgent halt to the plans, pointing to the possibility of widespread failures in rural regions as a result of low computer proficiency.
Remember that WAEC just stated that it was discontinuing paper-and-pencil tests, citing “global best practices.”
But in a statement made public by AYCF National President Yerima Shettima, the forum suggests doing something different: making CBT optional.
According to Shettima, providing two formats would enable students to select the mode of information demonstration that best suits their needs and achieves success.
The forum said it conducted research in several northern states like Zamfara, Jigawa, and Taraba. From the findings, the forum said that public schools, which often lack proper computer education, have witnessed consistently lower pass rates when CBT is introduced.
He said, “Even the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board – CBT exam has placed underprivileged students in a predicament as they struggle to answer questions in an unfamiliar format.
“Many students who failed the CBT-based JAMB exams last year argued that their failures were a result of systemic failures, including insufficient facilities or network failures during the exams.
“Additionally, a lack of proper and adequate computer skills, coupled with outdated desktop computers that are not properly maintained by CBT centres, further exacerbated the situation.
“As the exams are timed, these delays significantly hinder the performance of students who otherwise possess sufficient knowledge of the content.”
“The AYCF remains committed to promoting quality education, equitable examination processes, and the overall advancement of education in Nigeria. We stand ready to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to find suitable alternatives that ensure a level playing field for all students,” he added.
He, therefore, called on the Ministry of Education, Jama’atu Nasril Islam, Christian Association of Nigeria, National Association of Nigerian Students and other relevant Civil Society Organisations to unite and reject the planned CBT exams