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FG hails NECO CBT exam, says technology curbing malpractice

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • The Nigerian Federal Government expressed satisfaction with the ongoing Computer-Based Test (CBT) format for the Senior School Certificate Examination.
  • Officials observed that the CBT system significantly reduces examination malpractice by randomizing questions, making it difficult for students to cheat.
  • The government plans to expand CBT nationwide but will ensure necessary infrastructure is in place to avoid disadvantaging any student.

Nigeria's Federal Government has lauded the ongoing National Examinations Council (NECO) school-based Senior School Certificate Examination, particularly its Computer-Based Test (CBT) format. Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, monitored the examination in Abuja and expressed happiness with the process, noting that students found the CBT format easier and more convenient than traditional paper-based exams.

My assessment of the examination is that I’m very happy because from what I have seen in the two centres that I visited, the students are writing the CBT examination and they are happy. The setting for the examination is excellent.

— Prof. Suwaiba AhmadThe Minister of State for Education described her satisfaction after monitoring the CBT examination centers.

Ahmad highlighted that the CBT system is a significant step in curbing examination malpractice. She explained that the randomization of questions prevents students from copying from one another, as each candidate receives a different set. This feature addresses a key challenge in ensuring exam integrity.

Each student is writing a different set of questions, so even those sitting beside one another cannot communicate because their questions are different.

— Prof. Suwaiba AhmadThe minister explained how the CBT format prevents cheating through question randomization.

The government remains committed to a nationwide transition to CBT but emphasized a cautious approach. Ahmad stated that a full transition will only occur after ensuring adequate infrastructure is available to prevent any student from being disadvantaged. This involves collaboration with the National Assembly, state governors, and private partners.

We will not begin the complete transition until everything is ready because we do not want to put any student at a disadvantage.

— Prof. Suwaiba AhmadThe minister outlined the government's cautious approach to a full transition to CBT examinations.

Furthermore, the minister reported a smooth technical execution of the examination, with no reported cases of network failures, system malfunctions, or delays. This successful pilot program indicates NECO's progress in developing a sustainable nationwide CBT model for secondary school examinations.

In the schools I visited, I asked whether there were technical glitches in accessing the questions or starting the examination. They assured me that there had been no technical hitch. The examinations started on time without network problems or interruptions.

— Prof. Suwaiba AhmadThe minister reported on the smooth technical conduct of the CBT examinations.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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