The Effects of Competency Tests on the Practicing Teachers in Primary Schools Under Kaduna State Universal Basic Education, 2017-2023

The Study Investigates the Effects of Competency Tests on the Practicing Teachers in Primary Schools under Kaduna State Universal Basic Education, 2017-2023. The major objective is to examine the impact of the competency tests on teacher motivation, teacher quality, and pupils’ educational outcomes. A descriptive survey design was employed, with an estimated population of 1,000 primary school teachers as respondents from the three geo-political zones. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. However, only 652 respondents completed and returned the questionnaire, representing 65.2%. A Likert rating scale was used to analyze teacher perceptions of the competency tests. The finding reveal that competency test has a significant positive effect on the teacher motivation, and professional development. However, concerns regarding test fairness and anxiety persist. The study concludes that competency test can be effective tool for enhancing teacher quality, but it is crucial to address challenges related to test fairness, anxiety, inadequate manpower training, and infrastructure deficit. Recommendations include ensuring test validity, support for teachers, sustainable funding, and addressing infrastructure gaps. The findings contribute to the global discourse on education reform and innovation.