A total of 450 schools out of 24,207 nationwide have opted to conduct the 2026 Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) for school candidates, according to new data released by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).The computer-based option, introduced in 2025 as part of efforts to curb examination malpractice, has so far recorded slow adoption.
An analysis by Daily Trust shows that the 450 schools represent only 1.8% of all schools registered for the 2026 WASSCE—an indication of minimal penetration one year after its rollout.However, WAEC’s Head of National Office (HNO), Dr. Amos Dangut, emphasized that the figure marks a significant improvement compared to the previous year. He noted that fewer than 40 schools opted for CB-WASSCE during its debut in 2025.“This year, the number has increased. Last year, we had fewer than 40 schools nationwide that started the computer-based mode. But as we speak, we have about 450 schools,” Dangut announced during a press briefing on Monday.He further explained that the rising numbers are due to the flexible implementation of the computer-based format, noting that WAEC can deploy the system to a school within 24 hours once the school indicates readiness.
Meanwhile, candidates across the country will begin writing the essay and objective components of key language subjects—including Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba—today (Tuesday).Dangut also highlighted infrastructure requirements for schools intending to adopt the CBT format. He stressed the need for each centre to have a functional power backup system, either through generators or solar installations, citing concerns about the unreliability of the national power grid.
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