Rural students at risk as WAEC moves toward 2026 CBT WASSCE

Parents, students, and educators nationwide are expressing alarm over WAEC’s plan to introduce computer-based testing (CBT) for the 2026 WASSCE, warning that poor electricity supply, inadequate computers, and limited internet access make the transition unrealistic—especially for rural schools.

Researchers and teachers say most students lack basic computer skills due to the absence of electricity and ICT facilities in thousands of communities.

Joseph Fehintola of the University of Ibadan noted that many secondary school leavers—and even some teachers—cannot operate a computer because their schools lack the infrastructure for digital learning.

Students in rural areas say they feel abandoned.

Mary Nwankwo from Ndeaboh, Enugu State, said her school has no electricity or computer lab, while Okorie Agu from Abia State described the policy as a “design for mass failure” given the lack of digital facilities in rural schools.

Nigeria has over 23,500 secondary schools, yet computer access remains uneven between public and private schools and across rural and urban areas. Teachers warn that rolling out CBT without addressing these gaps will deepen inequality.

Experts also point to insecurity as a major concern, saying early-morning travel to centralised CBT centres could put students at risk.

They urge government to equip schools with ICT tools, improve power supply, and train teachers before the transition begins.

Speaking at the All Nigeria Editors Conference in Abuja, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, said most schools lack laptops and are unprepared for CBT.

He questioned how WAEC expects millions of students to write computer-based exams without the necessary equipment.

While stakeholders agree that digital transformation is important, many insist Nigeria is not yet ready for a full CBT-based WASSCE and warn that rushing the process could harm students who are already disadvantaged.