The University’s Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centre, located in the basement of the Library, currently houses over 400 computer systems connected to a central CBT server. This setup allows for the randomization of exam questions and answer options, ensuring fairness and preventing cheating. With around 90 courses administered through the CBT system at various levels, ranging from 100 level to final year, the system has become a cornerstone of the university’s examination process. The General Studies (GST) courses play a central role in this process, serving as the backbone for CBT-based exams across all levels.
To meet the growing demand for exams and ensure reliability, the university is expanding its resources. A new CBT Centre, located adjacent to the ICT complex, is set to open soon. With over 800 computer systems, the center promises to offer a more secure and efficient testing environment. The aim is to accommodate more students at once, saving time and streamlining the examination process. The new center is expected to host its first CBT exams during the upcoming semester.
In an exclusive interview, Mr. Yakmut, Director of ICT, shared insights into the ICT department’s ongoing efforts to enhance the CBT system and provide more efficient, secure, and inclusive exam environments.
“As the University continues to grow, so does the demand for exams,” Mr. Yakmut explained. “We need to ensure that our infrastructure can accommodate a growing number of students while maintaining the reliability and security of our systems.” This vision has led to the construction of a new CBT Centre adjacent to the ICT complex. This new centre, which is set to open in the upcoming semester, will significantly expand the university’s capacity, housing over 800 computer systems.
Mr. Yakmut emphasized that the goal is not only to increase capacity but also to streamline the examination process. “By having more systems in place, we can ensure that more students can take exams simultaneously, saving time and making the entire process more efficient.” The new CBT Centre is also designed to be more secure than the basement facility, ensuring the integrity of the examination process.
A key area of focus for Mr. Yakmut and the ICT department is improving accessibility for students with special needs, particularly those with visual impairments. Currently, staff members are assigned to read out questions and options for these students. However, the ICT department is working on developing software that will allow the system to read questions aloud and guide students through their responses, offering them more independence during exams.
“We want to ensure that every student, regardless of their needs, can take exams with the same level of ease and security,” said Mr. Yakmut. “By integrating this software, we will be taking a significant step toward making the CBT system fully inclusive.”
Academic integrity is a top priority at the university. “If a student is caught engaging in malpractice during a CBT exam, we follow a strict process,” Mr. Yakmut explained. “The student is handed over to the university’s malpractice committee with evidence, and appropriate penalties are enforced according to the student handbook.”
The CBT system is designed to maintain accurate records of all exams, which helps prevent issues like missing results. “There’s no way for results to be misplaced in the system. If a student is present for an exam, their results will be recorded,” Mr. Yakmut assured. “If students report missing results, it’s usually due to the department’s Exams Officers not checking the system properly. Once they look in the system, the results will be there.”
Looking forward, the university has ambitious plans to further expand the CBT system. The ICT department is aiming to increase the number of computer systems in the CBT Centre to support as many as 1,500 students taking exams at the same time. Additionally, a biometric attendance system will be introduced to improve security. “We’re introducing fingerprint recognition to ensure tighter security during exams and prevent impersonation,” Mr. Yakmut explained.
Beyond exam systems, Mr. Yakmut is also focused on improving the overall learning experience of a university semester by embracing digital tools. He sees technology as essential for enhancing teaching and learning, particularly in virtual spaces. “Lecturers should be able to engage students online, even when they can’t be physically present,” he said. “Lectures don’t have to be canceled because the lecturer isn’t available in person. As long as there’s a mobile phone and an internet connection, teaching can continue.”
The ICT department is working with the General Studies (GST) department to enable students to take GST exams from the comfort of their hostels. With the world moving toward more digital solutions, the university is expanding its Wi-Fi network to various hostels to ensure that all students have reliable internet access.
While the ICT department’s efforts to improve the CBT system are evident, students have shared a range of experiences with the system.
Faith Paul, a 200-level Business Administration student, shared her mixed experience. “Sometimes, the exams go well, but other times, they don’t. My computer system went off once, and my time kept running. I had to end the exam like that.”
Theresa Eshaleku, a 300-level Theatre and Film Arts student, has had a generally positive experience but noted the concerns of others. “I’ve never had a bad experience with the CBT system, but I’ve seen many students complain about it.”
Christian Richard, a 300-level Guidance and Counselling student, expressed concern about the power supply during exams. “The ICT department should ensure that the power supply is constant during exams. The generator should be used to avoid power issues from PHCN. Most of the computer systems used for exams are desktops, and once the power goes out, the computers shut down, ending the exam automatically if you’re not lucky.”
Kumep Lekwok, a 400-level Geology student, welcomed the opening of the new CBT centre. “I’m so happy that there is now a new CBT centre where only CBT exams will take place. There will be no more confusion among students about where to write their exams. As long as you know the CBT centre, you can go and take your exams without stress.”
With ongoing developments in the CBT system and the university’s broader digital initiatives, the ICT department is committed to providing a secure, inclusive, and efficient exam environment. As technology continues to advance, the university is focused on adapting and improving to meet the needs of its growing academic community.
Pictorial Excerpts
Reports and Photos by Perpetua Pam (ICT correspondent) (4/5)
Edited by Israel Fakwagh Ciboh.
