The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Port Harcourt Zone, has called on schools to upgrade their Internet Computer Technology (ICT) centres to meet the required standards ahead of the full transition to computer-based examinations.
The Zonal Coordinator, Mr. Adeniran-Amusan Akim, gave this advice on Thursday during a sensitisation programme held in Port Harcourt. The event was organised by Teadro Systems Ltd in partnership with the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), the Bank of Industry (BOI), Hewlett-Packard, Lenovo, and Canon.
Akim announced that the Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) would fully begin with the 2026 examination diet. He stressed that schools must start preparing now to meet the new examination requirements.
“The computer-based exam system is here to stay, and schools must adapt to the new format by complying with WAEC’s requirements,” Akim said.
He explained that while WAEC has already provided designated centres for schools that are unable to meet the set standards, institutions wishing to host the exams on their premises must provide the necessary facilities and infrastructure.
WAEC’s Head of Examination, Mr. Lucky Njoagwuani, highlighted that the council had successfully conducted computer-based tests for private candidates for the past two years.
He outlined the essential requirements schools must meet, which include at least 250 functional laptops with an additional 10 percent backup, a strong server capable of supporting 250 systems simultaneously, LAN connectivity, CCTV cameras, proper lighting and air conditioning, uninterrupted power supply with UPS, and a backup generator of at least 40kVA.
Njoagwuani added that the new system would improve accessibility, reduce paper usage, and cut down on logistics costs, making the examination process more efficient.
The Chairman of NAPPS in Rivers State, Mr. Sunday Jaja, encouraged school owners to take advantage of funding opportunities from the Bank of Industry and the Federal Government’s MSME intervention fund to meet these requirements.
“Technology is playing a vital role in modern education. This initiative will help schools stay updated with current trends and prepare students for the digital age,” Jaja said.
The event also featured a raffle draw where winners went home with various technological gadgets, including an HP computer set, Canon printer, Lenovo tablet, keyboard, and mouse.