By Muyideen Aliyu
The recently introduced Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for civil service promotion examinations by the Kwara State Government represents a historic milestone, marking the first time the process has been fully digitized within the state’s public service system.
Held at the State College of Education, Ilorin, the adoption of CBT aligns with global best practices as the era of paper-based administration is gradually phased out.
Describing these innovations as a significant leap toward productivity and efficiency, the State Head of Service, Dr. Olufunke Mercy Shittu, emphasized that learning new digital skills is now imperative for civil servants to remain relevant and in tune with the modern world order.
She noted that while the world and the federal government have already standardized digitization, this marks a groundbreaking shift for Kwara State.
Dr. Shittu lauded Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his unwavering support in driving transformative reforms.
She stated that the Governor’s commitment has made these critical changes inevitable, providing the clarity needed to eliminate barriers and successfully roll out new initiatives.
With such strong leadership, she assured that the implementation has progressed in strict accordance with official requirements and will continue without interruption.
The Head of Service further commended the Chairman and members of the State Civil Service Commission for their foresight, resourcefulness, and resilience during the demanding registration and preparation stages.
She urged civil servants to embrace this digital transformation, noting that the CBT examination is merely the beginning of broader reforms aimed at modernizing the state’s public service.
Dr. Shittu remarked that since most employees already utilize smartphones, extending those skills to the work environment should be a natural transition.
She assured workers that the new system eliminates long-standing challenges associated with manual methods, such as missing scripts, administrative errors, and examination malpractice.
Addressing the workforce, she clarified that the shift to digital testing is not intended to witch-hunt any individual but to ensure that public servants are compliant with international best practices.
Dr. Shittu reiterated the state government’s dedication to building a more efficient, transparent, and proactive civil service, ultimately fostering a sustainable and digitally-driven workforce.