The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) says it is exploring the introduction of computer-based testing (CBT) as part of efforts to tackle malpractice in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
WAEC’s Head of Public Affairs, John Kapi, says under the proposed system, candidates would write their examinations using computers instead of the traditional paper-based format.
He stated that the Council has already held technical discussions on the idea and is preparing to pilot it with a smaller exam before a nationwide rollout.
“Gradually, we are also thinking about computer-based testing, which is something that we have thought about. We have had a technical committee meeting. We want to pilot that with one of our small examinations, the general and advanced business certificate examination,” Mr. Kapi said in an interview with Accra-based Channel One TV on Friday, September 12.
“This is an examination that does not have a large candidature, so we can manage them at the regional capital, where we are sure of internet connectivity, and once we are able to do that, we believe we can begin the process, so that if that works, we can replicate it.”
Meanwhile, the Council says officials implicated in acts of corruption during the BECE will be blacklisted from ever taking part in its activities again.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express, Mr Kapi said the Council cannot continue to work with individuals who have betrayed the trust placed in them during national examinations.
“These are people who certainly have not proved that they are worthy of the trust that we repose in them.
“As far as this job is concerned, let me also indicate that when it comes to BECE, most of the decisions are taken by the Ghana Education Service. For example, the selection of supervisors and invigilators is done by the district exams officer,” he explained.