The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum strongly opposes the West African Examinations Council’s decision to adopt a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format for the upcoming Senior School Certificate Examination. The forum, led by National President Yerima Shettima, advocates for the cancellation of the proposed CBT exams, arguing that its mandatory implementation could lead to widespread failure, particularly in rural areas where computer skills are limited.
Shettima suggests that the CBT exams should be optional, allowing candidates to choose between the traditional pen-and-paper format and the computer-based approach. The forum’s research in selected northern states reveals consistent misleading failure rates among students in public schools, where computer skills are often not taught. Shettima highlights the challenges faced by underprivileged students during previous CBT-based exams, citing systemic failures, insufficient facilities, network issues, and a lack of proper computer skills as contributing factors.
The AYCF calls on various educational and religious organizations, including the Ministry of Education, Jama’atu Nasril Islam, Christian Association of Nigeria, National Association of Nigerian Students, and Civil Society Organizations, to unite against the planned CBT exams. The forum emphasizes its commitment to promoting quality education, equitable examination processes, and collaborating with stakeholders to find suitable alternatives for a fair and level playing field for all students.
