FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
New Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, National Business and Technical Examination Board, NABTEB, Dr Mohammed-Aminu Mohammed, yesterday, vowed to upgrade the processes of the examination body.
Mohammed, who was recently appointed by President Bola Tinubu, made the pledge on assumption of office at the headquarters of NABTEB in Benin City, Edo State.
He thanked the president and Minister of Education, Dr Moruf Alausa, for his appointment and the trust they placed on him to lead the institution.
He also expressed his commitment to ensure that the programmes and initiatives of NABTEB contribute to the realisation of Tinubu’s vision as captured in the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’, which emphasises the importance of technical education in driving national development and economic growth.
He said his administration would enhance the conduct of examinations by implementing the following measures: “Digitalisation of examination processes, strengthening security measures, expanding computer-based testing and enhanced monitoring and supervision.”
Others are:” Regular review of examination syllabi, improved logistics management, capacity building for examination officials and stakeholder engagement.”
Mohammed, said: “Having thoroughly assessed our current examination system, I have identified several areas that require immediate attention and strategic intervention.
“We will accelerate the digitalisation of our examination processes, from registration to result processing and certificate issuance. This will minimise human errors, reduce processing time and enhance the overall efficiency of our operations.
“We will gradually transition more of our subjects to computer-based testing platforms, in line with global trends and the increasing digital literacy of our candidates.
“We will strengthen our examination monitoring and supervision mechanisms through the deployment of more supervisors, the use of technology-enabled monitoring tools, collaboration with security agencies and community stakeholders.
“We will institute a systematic review of our examination syllabi to ensure that it remains relevant, up-to-date and in sync with industry needs and international standards.
“We will revamp our logistics management system to ensure timely delivery of examination materials to all centers, regardless of their geographical location.
“We will invest in regular training and retraining of examination officials, including supervisors, invigilators and markers, to enhance their competence and ethical conduct.
“We will engage more proactively with schools, technical institutions, government agencies and industry partners to address systemic challenges and harness collective solutions.
“These initiatives will not only improve the technical aspect of our examinations, but also enhance public confidence in the credibility and value of NABTEB certificates.”
While noting that the quality of facilities and adequate funding are critical determinants of the agency’s operational effectiveness and service delivery, he said NABTEB must be innovative and proactive in addressing its infrastructural and financial challenges.
Mohammed added that his administration would pursue the following strategies to improve facilities and funding for NABTEB: Infrastructure audit and rehabilitation, modern equipment acquisition, diversification of revenue sources, Public-Private Partnership, grant applications, cost optimisation measures, transparent financial management and stakeholder support mobilisation.
He equally pledged to prioritise the welfare of staff through improved working conditions, professional development, recognition and reward system, transparent promotion process, health and wellness programmes and open communication channels.
The Director, Special Duties, National Business and Technical Examinations Board, Mr Olugbenga Ojogbede, in his welcome address, described as timely, the appointment of Dr Mohammed, as the fifth substantive Registrar/Chief Executive Officer of NABTEB.
Ojogbede noted that the appointment is a testament to the confidence and trust placed on his leadership abilities.
He said: “With your wealth of experience, vision and dedication, we are confident that you will steer this board to greater heights. We know that the responsibilities ahead are enormous, but we also know that your passion for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, TVET, and your strategic insights will guide us in fostering a fair and credible examination system.
“As you assume office, you inherit a legacy of excellence, integrity and dedication, but not without some daunting challenges. Our board has a proud history of delivering quality assessment and certification at the post-basic and other levels, and we are committed to maintaining the highest standards, in line with global best practices.
“We recognise that the role of the registrar/chief executive officer comes with significant challenges and responsibilities. However, we are confident that your exceptional leadership skills and passion for excellence will enable you navigate these challenges and take our board to new heights.”
The director also stated that himself, other members of the management team and staff of NABTEB are excited to witness the positive impact that the new registrar/chief executive officer would undoubtedly bring to the board, stakeholders and the future of national examinations.
Ojogbede prayed that God would continue to protect, guide and give Mohammed the needed wisdom to pilot the affairs of NABTEB successfully.
