Oyo State to Deploy 60,000 Laptops for New WAEC CBT Exams

In a major boost to the “Pacesetter State’s” education sector, the Oyo State Government has officially declared war on the traditional “pen-and-paper” era. To ensure a seamless transition to the new WAEC Computer-Based Test (CBT) format, Governor Seyi Makinde has greenlit the procurement of 60,000 laptops for public senior secondary schools across the state.

The Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, confirmed the development during a courtesy visit from WAEC’s Zonal management. According to the Commissioner, Governor Makinde has directed that the financial roadmap for the massive laptop rollout be finalized immediately. This move is aimed at “future-proofing” Oyo students for the full digital adoption of external examinations.

The Zonal Coordinator of WAEC, Mr. Waheed Amode, revealed that the May/June 2026 examination will be a “hybrid” affair. Schools that are tech-ready can opt for the full CBT experience, while others will remain on pen-and-paper for now. However, the deadline for registration officially closed on February 2nd, leaving the stage set for the upcoming diet.

A stern warning has been issued to candidates, parents, and school principals: The “Zero-Tolerance” policy on mobile phones is back. Mr. Amode warned that any candidate caught with a mobile device could trigger the total cancellation of their school’s entire results. He urged teachers and principals to act as gatekeepers of integrity to protect the state’s educational reputation.

Beyond the gadgets, the state is also tackling a “moral emergency.” Meeting with the National Education Reform Movement (NERM), Commissioner Olayiwola called for a stronger partnership between parents and teachers to curb the rising tide of exam malpractice and indiscipline in schools.