In a recent address in Ibadan, Mr. Muyiwa Bamgbose, a prominent tech consultant, urged Nigerians and the Federal Government to embrace Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the administration of examinations nationwide.
Speaking during the Oyo State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) Recruitment Computer-Based Test (CBT) for applicants, Bamgbose emphasized that integrating ICT into the examination process could significantly enhance transparency, efficiency, and the overall quality of education in Nigeria.
Bamgbose highlighted several key benefits of ICT adoption in examinations. He noted that technology could help reduce the incidence of examination malpractice, a persistent problem in the Nigerian education system. By digitizing the examination process, the government would be able to conduct assessments simultaneously across the country, ensuring a level playing field for all candidates.
“Using ICT in examinations allows for quicker result processing,” Bamgbose stated. “This not only alleviates the stress and anxiety that often accompany the wait for examination results but also promotes transparency in how results are compiled and released.”
The tech expert also called for increased digital literacy among all citizens, emphasizing that a tech-savvy population is essential for economic growth. “We need to foster an environment that supports small-scale businesses, which are the largest employers of labor worldwide. Embracing ICT is a crucial step in that direction,” he said.
Pastor Akinade Alamu, the chairman of TESCOM, praised the successful conduct of the CBT examination and reiterated the significance of filling teaching and non-teaching vacancies in secondary schools across the state. He noted that the recruitment exercise is part of a broader effort to enhance educational standards in Oyo State.
While the benefits of integrating ICT into the examination system are clear, some applicants expressed concerns about the centralization of the CBT examinations. Several candidates suggested that the state government should consider decentralizing future examinations to reduce the burden on those traveling from distant locations to the state capital. This feedback highlights the need for a more accessible examination process, particularly in a country where transportation infrastructure remains a challenge.
The call for ICT integration is not new, but the recent push by Bamgbose and others signals a growing acknowledgment of the potential that technology holds for transforming Nigeria’s education sector. Countries around the world have successfully implemented digital examination systems, leading to improved educational outcomes. For instance, countries like Kenya and South Africa have incorporated technology into their examination processes, resulting in more secure and efficient assessments.
However, for Nigeria to follow suit, several challenges must be addressed. Infrastructure development is paramount; many regions still struggle with inadequate internet connectivity and power supply, which are critical for the successful implementation of digital examinations. Additionally, training educators and examination officials in the use of new technologies is essential to ensure a smooth transition from traditional methods.
Furthermore, the government must invest in public awareness campaigns to educate parents and students about the benefits of ICT in education. By fostering a culture of technological acceptance, Nigeria can create a generation that is not only skilled in digital literacy but also equipped to thrive in a global economy increasingly driven by technology.
Mr. Muyiwa Bamgbose’s advocacy for the integration of ICT in Nigeria’s examination system is a timely and essential call to action. By embracing technology, the Nigerian government can enhance transparency, reduce malpractice, and ultimately improve the quality of education. As the nation moves forward, addressing the challenges of infrastructure and digital literacy will be crucial in realizing the full potential of ICT in education.
