Open Letter to the Honorable Minister of Education: Preparing Our Students for the Impending Digital WAEC Examinations
Your Excellency, Honorable Minister of Education,
I write to you with a deep sense of urgency and responsibility regarding a matter that threatens the academic future of thousands of Nigerian students—the impending transition of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) to Computer-Based Examinations (CBE). This shift, set to commence next year, presents a critical challenge that demands immediate and decisive action from your office.
The current reality in many schools, particularly in Cross River State and likely across the nation, is alarming. Data suggests that over 80% of Senior Secondary Two (SS2) students lack basic computer literacy. Compounding this crisis is the fact that a significant number of our schools have no functional computer laboratories, and where they exist, access for students remains severely limited. Without foundational digital skills and exposure to computer-based testing formats, our students are being set up for systemic failure—a prospect that will have far-reaching consequences on their educational and professional futures.
Your Excellency, the time for intervention is now. I respectfully urge your office to consider the following emergency measures:
1. Immediate Adjustment of the Academic Calendar: A temporary shortening of the current third term, followed by a mandatory two-month intensive computer literacy program for all SS2 students, would provide them with the critical skills needed to navigate the digital WAEC examinations.
2. Partnerships with Accredited Training Centers: Collaborate with reputable ICT training institutions to ensure students receive hands-on training in basic computer operations, typing, and digital test-taking strategies.
3. Emergency Provision of Infrastructure: Direct immediate funding and support to schools lacking computer facilities, ensuring at least minimum digital readiness before the 2025 WAEC examinations.
The stakes could not be higher. Without prompt action, we risk a generational setback in educational outcomes, with thousands of students failing not due to a lack of academic ability, but because of systemic unpreparedness for this digital transition.
Your leadership at this pivotal moment can avert this looming disaster. I appeal to you to act swiftly and decisively, for the sake of our children and the future of Nigeria’s education system.
Respectfully yours,
Dr. Mike Udam
School Teacher and Preacher
Ogoja, Nigeria