The National Parent Teacher Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN) has endorsed the decision of the House of Representatives to closely monitor the proposed Computer-Based Testing (CBT) Examinations by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), National Examinations Council (NECO), and National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB).
In a statement issued in Abuja over the weekend, the National President of the Parent Teacher Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN), Prof. Boniface Odeh, expressed the belief that CBT can enhance the efficiency, transparency, and reliability of Examinations, provided that adequate infrastructure and support systems are put in place.
However, NAPTAN strongly recommends that the proposal to implement CBT Examinations be deferred until 2030, when schools would have had sufficient time to acquire the necessary facilities and infrastructure to effectively conduct CBT examinations. Unfortunately, according to Prof .Odeh, about 90% of Schools currently lack the requisite facilities, including reliable internet connectivity, functional computer systems, and adequate power supply, to support CBT Examinations.
In his words, “Implementing CBT without adequate preparation and infrastructure would be counterproductive and potentially a disadvantage to many students.
“I therefore urge policymakers to prioritize the development of necessary infrastructure and capacity-building in schools before rolling out CBT examinations.”
NAPTAN assured stakeholders of its close working relationship with the House of Representatives, Senate, WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to CBT and to address any challenges that may arise.
By doing so, the Association can ensure that the proposed CBT examinations meet the required standards and provide a level playing field for all students.
Prof. Odeh opined that a phased implementation approach, with a realistic timeline, would be more effective in ensuring the success of CBT examinations in Nigeria.
Odeh is the present Provost of College of Education Oju, in Benue state .
