NECO Registrar Calls for Stronger Laws to Combat Examination Malpractice in Nigeria
The Registrar/Chief Executive of the National Examination Council (NECO), Professor Ibrahim Dantani Wushishi, has advocated for the creation of a comprehensive national examination law to address the persistent issue of examination malpractice in Nigeria. He stated that such legislation would help maintain the integrity of exams across the country.
Proposal for a National Examination Law
During a one-day retreat organized by NECO, titled “Legislative Functions: The Imperatives of Achieving NECO’s Mandate and the Challenges of Examination Legislation in Nigeria,” Wushishi highlighted the need for a national law to regulate all aspects of examinations. He explained that a unified legal framework would allow the integration of new technologies, such as computer-based testing (CBT), while ensuring fairness and security in examinations.
Aligning Nigerian Qualifications with International Standards
Wushishi emphasized that robust legislation could help align Nigerian qualifications with global standards, benefiting students seeking educational opportunities abroad or pursuing careers that require internationally recognized credentials.
Challenges Facing NECO
Wushishi also discussed several challenges hindering NECO’s ability to fulfill its mandate, including infrastructure constraints, an increase in candidate enrollment, inadequate funding, and the ongoing issue of examination malpractice. He urged the need for a review of the existing laws governing NECO to address these challenges more effectively.
Stakeholders Call for Legal Reform
During the event, various stakeholders in the education sector also supported the call for a review of the current laws governing NECO. They noted that updating the legal framework would reflect technological advancements and address the evolving needs of the education sector.
Governor Bago Supports the Call for Legal Reform
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, who chaired the retreat, emphasized the importance of revising the laws that guide NECO’s operations to accommodate emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. He urged NECO to expand discussions beyond the retreat to include other stakeholders and develop a strong policy to be sent to the National Assembly.
Ministry of Education’s Support for Reform
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of State for Education, Sununu Tanko, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Didi Esther Walson-Jack, highlighted the crucial role of NECO in managing the country’s educational system. She echoed the need for updated legislation to tackle challenges such as outdated laws, examination malpractice, and the digital transformation of education.
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