Now, the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced a bold new measure that aims to restore integrity and trust in examinations throughout the region: personalised question papers for individual candidates.
Exam papers, reimagined
In designated core subjects (English language, maths, economics and biology), no two candidates will receive the same set of questions. Exam papers will be generated uniquely, so any attempt to cheat will be recognised instantly if a completed paper appears that is not a match for the one assigned to the candidate by the exam board.
A senior WAEC exam board spokesperson describes the policy as a “game-changer” that demonstrates that the time of gaining easy exam passes by cheating is over.
Emotional and practical study help
As the new system comes into force, schools have encouraged teachers and parents to encourage students to study hard and revise for their exams. And, recognising that the exam period can be stressful, they are also urged to provide emotional support as well as practical help to create practical study spaces for students.
