CBT, best way to curb exam malpractice – WAEC

The West African Examination Council (WAEC) is pushing for the widespread implementation of computer-based testing (CBT) as a key strategy to curb rampant examination malpractice. This call comes amid growing concerns about the integrity of public examinations and the value of educational certificates.

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Any system that rewards students for cheating undermines those who have worked hard to prepare for examinations.

Timothy Manga, a WAEC official based in Makurdi, highlighted the issue of "miracle centers", locations notorious for facilitating cheating. He described these centers as a significant threat to the educational system, emphasizing that schools should be recognized for academic excellence, not for enabling malpractice. Manga stressed the need for an examination system where success is based on genuine knowledge, preparation, and competence, rather than on illicit assistance during tests.

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We need an examination system where success is determined by knowledge, preparation, and competence, not by the ability to access assistance during examinations.

While WAEC has not officially confirmed the existence of any "miracle centers" in Benue state, Manga stated that the council is actively gathering information. He assured that WAEC would take decisive action if any such center is identified, aiming to set an example and deter future malpractice.

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Though WAEC has not gotten any information on any school being a “miracle centre”, we would continue to put our ears to the ground in case we hear of any that we can set an example with.

Teachers and school proprietors have also weighed in on the issue. Rebecca Ezekiel, a teacher, suggested that independent examination centers, coupled with technological advancements like biometric verification and CCTV cameras, could enhance monitoring and reduce the influence of schools over examination processes. Conversely, Jude Odeh, a school proprietor, argued that admitting final-year students does not automatically qualify a school as a "miracle" center, attributing some parental decisions to factors like high examination registration and school fees.

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Candidates should be examined under conditions that are independent of the schools where they receive instructions.