FG Mandates Inclusion of NIN, Date of Birth, and Photos on Certificates Plans to Fully Transition to CBT by 2027

FG Mandates Inclusion of NIN, Date of Birth, and Photos on Certificates Plans to Fully Transition to CBT by 2027

FG Mandates Inclusion of NIN, Date of Birth, and Photos on Certificates Plans to Fully Transition to CBT by 2027

The Federal Government has officially mandated the inclusion of National Identification Number (NIN), Date of Birth (DOB), and passport-sized photographs.

The Federal Government instructed all public examination bodies, including the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), the National Examinations Council (NECO), and the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), to incorporate the three essential identifiers—National Identification Number (NIN), Date of Birth (DOB), and candidate photographs—on all certificates issued to qualified candidates.

This initiative is part of the government’s broader agenda to modernize documentation processes and ensure that identification systems are robust and reliable.

This directive was communicated by the Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, during the inauguration of a committee designated to facilitate the transition of national examinations from traditional paper-based formats to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) by the year 2027. Dr. Alausa underscored the crucial role of technology in enhancing both the quality and integrity of examinations, with a full implementation anticipated within the next three years.

The Minister articulated the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing examination malpractices, which he characterized as a significant national concern.

He expressed apprehension regarding the increasing incidents of malpractice, identity theft, and collusion involving students, parents, educators, and school administrators. The introduction of NIN, DOB, and photographs on certificates is projected to considerably mitigate these issues.

The committee, chaired by JAMB Registrar Professor Is-haq Oloyede, has been mandated to submit its report by June 2025. It has been assigned six primary objectives, including the eradication of examination leakages, the resolution of identity theft, the transition to CBT, and the enhancement of examination supervision and oversight.

Dr. Alausa emphasized the necessity of a collaborative approach, noting that malpractices involve various stakeholders, including students, parents, educators, and examination supervisors. He further announced that commencing with the next examination cycle in May-July 2025, all certificates issued by WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB will be required to display the mandated identifiers.

The Minister reaffirmed the government's resolve to utilize technology to elevate examination standards and eradicate unethical practices, thereby ensuring the integrity of Nigeria’s education system.

Why This Matter

The integration of NIN, DOB, and photographs into educational certificates is expected to achieve several significant objectives:

1. Enhanced Security: By linking each certificate to a unique National Identification Number, it becomes increasingly difficult for fraudulent activities, such as certificate forgery, to occur.

2. Streamlined Verification: Employers and institutions will find it easier to verify the authenticity of certificates, thus fostering trust in the educational system.

3. Accurate Records: With the incorporation of Date of Birth, institutions can maintain accurate records, minimizing discrepancies and aiding in effective data management.

The Path to Full CBT Transition by 2027

In addition to these changes, the Federal Government has announced plans for a complete transition to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for all examinations by the year 2027. This shift is aimed at improving the examination process, making it more efficient, transparent, and accessible to students across the country.

Key Benefits of Full CBT Transition:

- Increased Efficiency: CBT allows for quicker administration and grading of exams, reducing waiting times for results.

- Accessibility: Students have the opportunity to take exams in a more flexible environment, accommodating various learning styles.

- Better Resource Management: Digital exams require less physical infrastructure, allowing for better allocation of resources.

What This Means for Students

As these initiatives unfold, students are encouraged to prepare early by ensuring they have their NIN and other required documentation ready. Furthermore, institutions will begin to implement these changes, so staying informed through official channels will be crucial.

Conclusion

The Federal Government's recent mandate to include NIN, DOB, and photographs on certificates, coupled with the ambitious goal of transitioning to full CBT by 2027, marks a transformative step for education in Nigeria.

These developments present opportunities for enhanced security, efficiency, and trust within the educational framework. As we move forward, continuous engagement with educational bodies and government announcements will be invaluable in navigating these changes successfully.

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