Professor Celestino Obua Appointed as New UNEB Chairperson
In a recent development, Professor Celestino Obua, currently serving as the Vice Chancellor of Mbarara University of Science and Technology, has been chosen to assume the role of Chairperson for the Uganda Examinations Board (UNEB). The appointment was formally announced by Education Minister Janet Museveni and took place during a board meeting held at the UNEB headquarters in Ntinda on a Friday afternoon.
Inauguration and Words of Caution from Janet Museveni
During the inauguration ceremony, Education Minister Janet Museveni offered words of caution and encouragement to the newly appointed chairperson. She emphasized the pivotal role of UNEB in Uganda’s education landscape and the importance of upholding high standards in Human Capital Development. Janet Museveni conveyed her confidence in Professor Obua’s ability to tackle the responsibilities that lay ahead.
Succession from Professor Mary Okwakol
Professor Celestino Obua is succeeding Professor Mary Okwakol, who held the position of Chairperson since 2014, following the tenure of educationist Fagil Mandy. Professor Obua’s familiarity with UNEB stems from his prior service on the 10th board of the examination body, where he chaired various committees, including those related to research and ICT. This extensive experience positions him well for his new role as Chairperson.
Challenges and Adaptations in UNEB
Professor Obua’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture for UNEB as the organization must align its assessment methods with a new curriculum and consider integrating continuous assessments conducted at the school level. Janet Museveni stressed the importance of ensuring that the assessment process remains valid and reliable, resulting in nationally recognized certificates.
Acknowledging Professor Mary Okwakol’s Leadership
The outgoing Chairperson, Professor Mary Okwakol, received praise from the First Lady for her steadfast leadership during challenging periods characterized by budget constraints and crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these obstacles, UNEB maintained a flawless record without any scandals under Professor Okwakol’s guidance.
Achievements Under Professor Okwakol
During Professor Okwakol’s tenure, several milestones were achieved, including the enactment of the long-pending UNEB Act. This legislation redefined the board’s functions, restructured its membership, and granted it enhanced powers. Additionally, it introduced more rigorous measures to deter examination malpractice and broadened the scope of offenses covered by the Act. Over the same period, 12 policies were passed and implemented, addressing various challenges, such as the effective Whistleblowers Policy.
Professor Okwakol’s Parting Words
In her farewell address, Professor Okwakol expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead and highlighted pressing challenges that the board faces. These challenges include the need for increased funding to support learners with special needs and a revision of the unit cost for administering examinations. She also pointed out the lack of reliable funding for the Board’s National Assessment of Progress in Education (NAPE) program, despite its substantial benefits to the Ministry.
Warm Commendations for Professor Okwakol and Dan Odongo’s Remarks
Dan Odongo, the UNEB Executive Director, commended Professor Okwakol for her leadership, noting that her tenure brought about peaceful years and autonomy in the board’s management. This was in stark contrast to a turbulent period during Fagil Mandy’s leadership when conflicts with the UNEB Executive Secretary at the time, Mathew Bukenya, led to Mandy’s resignation.
Smooth Transition and Future Prospects
As Professor Obua assumes office, he conveyed his acceptance of the role and commitment to upholding his predecessor’s successes while striving to elevate the board further. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving the institution’s objectives and goals.
Professor Celestino Obua will be leading the 11th board of the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB), with the rest of the board members continuing their service from the previous year.
