WAEC: Stakeholders Strategize on Hitch-free Computer-Based Exams in Anambra

By Praise Chinecherem

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Anambra State Branch has organized a high-level strategic meeting with the Ministry of Education and key education stakeholders to map out plans for the successful conduct of the 2025/2026 examinations.

The meeting, held at the Ministry of Education, State Secretariat Complex, Awka, brought together principals, teachers, private school owners, designated cyber café operators, and other education leaders, with a focus on preparations for the Federal Government’s planned Computer-Based Examinations (CBE).

Speaking during the meeting, Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh commended WAEC for engaging stakeholders ahead of the exams, describing it as a proactive step toward credible and transparent assessments.

She reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting examination processes that enhance educational quality in the state.

WAEC Branch Controller, Ajibade Tunde stressed that accurate candidate registration remained the foundation of successful examinations.

He warned that errors at this stage could have long-term consequences, including loss of admission opportunities.

He said, “With the planned adoption of CBE, registration officials must be thorough, especially in capturing candidates’ faces, since entry into the examination hall will require face verification.

“An error such as uploading the wrong image renders a candidate ineligible. A successful examination starts with proper registration.

“Errors at this stage can disrupt a candidate’s future. While some mistakes can be corrected, others cannot.”

Tunde also expressed concern over the rising number of amendment cases due to registration errors and emphasized the need for proper training and sensitization of registration officers.

On examination centres for CBE, the Controller explained that schools with facilities meeting WAEC accreditation requirements will serve as centres, while schools without adequate infrastructure will be merged with nearby accredited schools.

Reacting on candidates with special needs, WAEC Anambra Head of Examinations, Mr. Faheden Olanrewaju stressed that schools must go beyond ticking a disability column during registration.

He explained that schools are required to purchase and complete a proforma form to ensure candidates with disabilities receive appropriate accommodations during exams. Schools must notify WAEC in advance to allow proper preparation.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Dr Ifeoma Agbaizu expressed optimism that the meeting would ensure full alignment between WAEC and stakeholders for a smooth examination process.

Participants agreed that the measures discussed would not only ensure a hitch-free 2025/2026 examination period but also sustain credibility in Anambra State’s education system.