In a significant move towards modernization, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced its decision to transition the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for Private Candidates from the traditional Paper and Pencil Test (PPT) format to a Computer-based Examination (CBE) starting in 2024.
This transformative initiative, in line with global best practices, marks a significant shift in the examination process. WAEC disclosed the completion of plans for this migration in a statement issued on Monday by its Public Affairs Department. Moyosola F. Adesina, the Acting Head of Public Affairs, highlighted the global relevance of this move.
The innovation is set to debut with the WASSCE for Private Candidates, 2024 – First Series, scheduled for February 2024. The statement emphasized that while the Objective Tests would be entirely Computer-based, the Essay and Test of Practical papers would be hybrid. Candidates will receive examination questions on screen, and they are required to provide answers on answer booklets provided to them.
The examination will be conducted in urban centers/cities, with provisions made for candidates with special needs. Registration for the examination is slated to commence on Monday, December 18, 2023.
To facilitate a smooth transition and help candidates familiarize themselves with the new examination platform, WAEC has arranged for a Mock Examination to be conducted in February 2024, preceding the official examination. The Council encourages all prospective candidates to enhance their computer skills and be fully prepared to embrace this innovative approach to the WASSCE for Private Candidates.
