WAEC Issues Strict New Rules: 250 Computers And CCTV Now Compulsory For Schools

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has unveiled the mandatory facilities schools must provide as part of preparations for the full transition of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) to computer-based testing by 2026.

Speaking at a sensitisation programme in Port Harcourt on Thursday, WAEC’s Head of Examinations, Mr. Lucky Njoagwuani, explained that schools are required to have at least 250 functional laptops with an additional 10 percent backup, a robust computer server capable of supporting all systems simultaneously, and a Local Area Network. He added that schools must also provide functional air conditioners, adequate lighting, uninterrupted electricity supply with a backup generator of no less than 40kVA, CCTV cameras, and a reception or holding room for candidates.

According to him, the migration to CBT is intended to reduce logistics costs, strengthen examination security, and improve accessibility. He recalled that the Council first introduced the initiative in its private candidate examinations two years ago and confirmed that this year’s second series was conducted entirely on computers with no option for pen-and-paper. “By next year, the school candidate examination will also be fully computer-based,” he stated.

The Port Harcourt Zonal Coordinator of WAEC, Mr. Adeniran-Amusan Akim, urged schools to begin upgrading their ICT facilities to meet the required standards, emphasising that the CBT model “is here to stay.” He cautioned that schools unable to meet the conditions would be redirected to accredited centres. “WAEC will not lower the standards. Any school that wishes to host the exams must provide the necessary equipment and infrastructure,” he warned.

Also addressing participants, the Rivers State Chairman of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Mr. Sunday Jaja, encouraged proprietors to explore financial support from the Bank of Industry and the Federal Government’s MSME intervention fund to meet the requirements. He noted that embracing technology would enable schools to keep pace with global trends and better prepare students for the digital age.

The sensitisation programme, jointly organised by Teadro Systems Ltd, NAPPS, and partners including the Bank of Industry, HP, Lenovo, and Canon, featured the donation of ICT equipment such as laptops, printers, and tablets to selected schools through a raffle draw.