Controversy Brews as Arewa Youths Reject Adoption of CBT Mode in WAEC Examinations, Cite Reasons

The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYFC) has voiced its opposition to the upcoming West African Examinations Council (WAEC) exams being conducted in a computer-based test (CBT) format. The national president of the youth forum, Yerima Shettima, conveyed that this move could result in mass failure, particularly among students in rural areas where computer skills are limited.

The rejection comes after WAEC’s acting head of public affairs, Moyosola Adesina, announced the transition from the traditional paper and pencil test to CBT for the Senior School Certificate Examination, citing alignment with global best practices.

Shettima argued that making CBT exams optional would have been a more considerate approach, allowing students to choose the format they are comfortable with. He referred to research conducted by the forum in northern states, highlighting consistently high failure rates in CBT exams, particularly in public schools where computer skills are not commonly taught.

The forum raised concerns about the predicament faced by underprivileged students during CBT-based exams, such as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) tests. Shettima pointed out systemic issues, including insufficient facilities, network failures, lack of computer skills, and outdated equipment, contributing to the students’ struggles and failures.

Calling upon the Ministry of Education, Jama’atu Nasril Islam, Christian Association of Nigeria, National Association of Nigerian Students, and other civil society organizations, the AYCF urged them to reject the planned CBT exams. Shettima emphasized the forum’s commitment to promoting quality education and equitable examination processes, expressing readiness to collaborate with stakeholders to explore alternatives ensuring a fair playing field for all students.