The Digest:
The Federal Government has announced that the National Examinations Council (NECO) will begin conducting computer-based examinations in 2026 as part of efforts to tackle examination malpractice and modernise the country's assessment system. Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, disclosed this during NECO's 25th anniversary celebration in Abuja. He stated that the new model would enable real-time candidate monitoring, detection of suspicious activities, and reduction of examination fraud. NECO's Registrar, Prof. Dantani Wushishi, said the council now conducts examinations in eight countries.
Key Points:
- Nigerian students must now develop digital literacy skills to succeed in national examinations.
- Computer-based testing reduces opportunities for question leaks, impersonation, and centre-level collusion.
- Students in underserved communities may face access challenges if computers and electricity are unavailable.
- The shift follows JAMB's successful CBT model, signalling a permanent move away from paper-based exams.
- The timing of the 2026 rollout gives schools one year to prepare their infrastructure and students.
Sources: The Punch
