The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (ACYF) has taken a resolute stand against the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) proposed computer-based test (CBT) format, they insist this method will lead to widespread student failure, particularly in rural areas. Yerima Shettima, the national president of AYFC, expressed dissatisfaction, asserting that the CBT exams should have been optional.
“Adopting the CBT mode for the exam will lead to mass failure for students, especially in rural areas where computer skills are scarce or absent,” warned Mr. Shettima.
The rejection follows WAEC’s announcement, citing alignment with global best practices, to replace the traditional paper-and-pencil model with CBT for the Senior School Certificate Examination.
Shettima argued for optional CBT exams, allowing students to choose the format they’re comfortable with:
“The CBT exams should have been made optional, which would have provided students the opportunity to choose the format they are most comfortable with and capable of attempting successfully.”
Highlighting research conducted in northern states, Shettima emphasized, “CBT exams consistently led to misleading failure rates among students attending public schools, where computer skills were often not taught.”
He lamented challenges faced by students in CBT-based exams:
“Underprivileged students struggle to answer questions in an unfamiliar format. Delays due to insufficient facilities or network failures significantly hinder the performance of students who otherwise possess sufficient knowledge.”
The AYFC calls on education stakeholders to reject the planned CBT exams, advocating for suitable alternatives to ensure a level playing field for all students.