The Nigeria Education News team today visited Plant and Pillars College, Osogbo, an accredited centre for the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), to monitor the ongoing nationwide examination which commenced with strict digital protocols introduced by WAEC across all centres.
The examination at the Osogbo-based school started with the Government paper in the morning session, followed by Agricultural Science in the afternoon. The atmosphere was calm yet filled with anticipation as students arrived early and were guided by staff through a new biometric identification process using personalized WAEC ID cards.
Speaking on the innovation, the principal of the school, Mr. Oyesina, noted that the conduct of the examination had taken a more secure and professional turn. “This year is different. Students now use their ID cards to sign in and out through a small biometric device provided by WAEC. It’s not fingerprinting—it’s card-based authentication, and it’s being used in all centres across Nigeria,” he said.
Dr. Mrs. Oderinde, Director of the school, also addressed students ahead of the first paper. She led them in a short prayer session and encouraged them to uphold integrity. “We believe in your preparation, and we trust that you’ll do well. But above all, do not cheat. Write as responsible future leaders,” she advised.
Mrs. Adebimpe Akinleye, the school’s WAEC coordinator, told our correspondents that the ID-based biometric sign-in system was a welcome development. “Last year, WAEC didn’t use this. Now, every candidate scans their official ID card at a compact machine to confirm attendance and legitimacy. This eliminates impersonation and ensures strict accountability,” she said.
She also emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline. “We are doing our best as educators, but we also need to instill character. The goal is not just to pass exams, but to produce responsible individuals. Cheating today can damage a person’s integrity forever.”
In separate interviews with candidates, the mood was largely confident. Haliyat Oyelade, an Arts student, praised her preparation and the guidance she received. “Our Government teacher made us love the subject from SS1. I’m entering the hall with peace of mind. This exam is no threat,” she said with a smile.
Benjamin Afolayan, a Science student and the school’s Senior Prefect, also shared his optimism. “We’ve had comprehensive tutorials and past question drills. The ID card sign-in was new but very easy. It made the process faster and more secure,” he explained.
According to WAEC’s national guidelines, over 1.7 million candidates registered for the 2025 WASSCE, and all centres across Nigeria received the ID-based sign-in biometric machines ahead of the exam date. Reports from other zones confirmed that this system was uniformly deployed and functioning as expected.
A staff member from Osun WAEC Zonal Office who declined to be named confirmed that the card-based biometric system was introduced “to prevent impersonation and maintain accurate records of candidate attendance.” He said, “This move is part of WAEC’s digital transition efforts, and so far, over 98% of centres have complied.”
Security and order were also strictly maintained at Plant and Pillars College. Mr. Sikiru Lawal, a security personnel, told The Nigeria Education News that the centre operated smoothly. “There was no disturbance at all. Students followed instructions, and the new verification system worked without glitches.”
The school principal, Mr. Oyesina, said the centre was hosting 12 WAEC candidates this year. He expressed confidence that they would perform excellently. “We’ve done the best we can in teaching and moral training. It’s now left for the students to do their part,” he said.
Dr. Oderinde also explained that beyond academics, the school focused on emotional preparedness. “Many students panic during WAEC. We provided counselling sessions to teach time management, self-confidence, and handling exam stress,” she noted.
Mrs. Akinleye disclosed that invigilators from Osogbo Grammar School arrived early and were satisfied with the setup and student conduct. “They gave us a thumbs-up for compliance. No malpractice was recorded,” she confirmed.
The exam papers for Government and Agricultural Science were concluded without hitches. As the students exited the hall, some of them were visibly relieved and excited. “That Government paper was fair,” one student said, smiling and comparing answers with peers.
With several weeks ahead before the final paper, WAEC has stated that biometric monitoring will continue daily, with real-time reporting from each centre. Osun State, like others, has been urged to maintain the standard and ensure that every candidate receives equal opportunity in a transparent environment.
As Haliyat concluded in her words, “We’re not afraid. We are ready. Let the rest of the exams come!”
