Kwara conducts first computer-based promotion exam for civil servants

The Kwara State Government has introduced computer-based promotion examinations for civil servants, ending decades of paper-based assessment in the state’s public service.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Acting Head of Service in Kwara State, Olufunke Shittu, said the reform marks a major shift in the state’s administrative process and aligns with global standards of public service delivery.

She spoke during an inspection of the exercise at the CBT centre of the Kwara State College of Education in Ilorin, where civil servants sat for the digitised promotion examination.

Describing the initiative as transformative, she said the new system was designed to improve credibility and eliminate inefficiencies associated with the old paper-based method.

“This is not just an examination; it is a transformation process. What we are witnessing today is the beginning of a new era in the Kwara civil service.

“For years, we have battled issues such as missing scripts, delays in marking, and avoidable human errors. This system addresses those challenges decisively and restores confidence in the promotion process,” she said.

Olufunke noted that the exercise is the first of its kind in the state and forms part of broader reforms aimed at improving efficiency, accountability and service delivery across government ministries and agencies.

She attributed the success of the initiative to the support of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, saying his administration has consistently pushed for innovation in governance.

“The Governor has consistently emphasised the need for innovation in governance. His support has been instrumental in making this transition seamless,” she added.

She also commended the Kwara State Civil Service Commission for coordinating the exercise, noting that extensive planning and staff training ensured a smooth rollout.

Olufunke further urged civil servants to embrace digital tools, saying technological competence is now essential in modern public administration.

“Digital literacy is no longer optional in today’s workplace. Civil servants must be ready to evolve with the system as we deepen these reforms,” she said.

She assured candidates of adequate technical support throughout the exercise and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a transparent, performance-driven civil service in the state.