Over 2,000 security officers and scouts have been assigned to oversee the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations, which began with candidate briefings on Friday. The Uganda National Examination Board (UNEB) is collaborating with security agencies, contracted professionals, and examination center heads to maintain the integrity and security of the examination process.
Recent events prompted this heightened security, as nine suspects were arrested for alleged fraud and the possession of national examination papers. Six of the suspects have been arraigned in court and are remanded in Luzira Prison until October 30, 2023.
Mr. Dan Odongo, the executive director of UNEB, issued a strong warning against examination malpractice to schools, candidates, parents, and the general public. He emphasized the board’s commitment to preventing malpractice by deploying 1,036 security officers, 1,113 scouts, and 107,941 invigilators to monitor UCE examinations across the country.
Mr. Odongo cautioned the public against fraudsters claiming to possess UNEB examination blueprints and extorting money from unsuspecting individuals.
The UNEB Act, 2021, outlines strict penalties for those involved in examination malpractice. Anyone attempting to gain possession of examination papers or assisting candidates in cheating can face fines or imprisonment.
This year’s UCE examinations will be conducted under the theme of ‘Integrity and security in the management of examinations is a joint responsibility.’ A total of 364,470 candidates have registered for the UCE examination this year, marking a 4.3% increase from the previous year.
In addition, Mr. Odongo urged parents to address school fee balances early with school heads to prevent candidates from being inconvenienced during the examination. He also requested examination center heads to avoid removing candidates from examination rooms due to fee issues and mentioned that the board would assist schools in recovering fees from defaulting candidates after the examination.
UNEB will continue to withhold examination results of candidates with unpaid school fees balances. The board also warned candidates against indiscipline and stated that it would not interfere with disciplinary measures imposed by schools.
During a media briefing, Mr. Fred Enanga, the police spokesperson, encouraged the public to report any disruptions or interference during the examination period. He mentioned that patrol routes had been established to counter security breaches and disruptive behaviors.
This year’s UCE candidates include 777 Special Needs Education (SNE) learners and candidates funded under the Universal Secondary Education (USE) Program. The examination will take place in 3,863 centers across the country, with 59 candidates from Luzira Upper Prison Center.
