Kampala, Uganda – The Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) exams have kicked off today, November 11, 2024, marking the beginning of the last set of this year’s four examinations, dubbed the “4Es”
Speaking at the weekly security briefing today, the spokesperson of UNEB Jenifer Kalule Musamba said, “The candidates started writing their papers this morning, with the arts candidates writing History paper 3 and 4, while the science candidates are writing principal mathematics, paper 1.”
A total of 142,009 candidates are registered for the examination, a 22.1% increase from last year’s 110,569 candidates.
The exams will be conducted in 2,634 centers across the country, with 991 contracted professionals and 470 security personnel overseeing the examination.
Of the 142,009 candidates, 61,968 (43.6%) are female, while 80,041 (56.4%) are male.
In addition, 25.1% (35,661) of the candidates are sponsored by the government under the Universal Post Level Education and Training (UPOLET) Program, while 74.8% are privately sponsored.
The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has cautioned against examination malpractice, with penalties ranging from five to ten years’ imprisonment or fines between 20-40 million shillings.
“Security agencies have arrested a number of culprits who attempted to indulge in malpractice for at PLE and UCE Levels. They will still be on the lookout from more offenders even at this level.” She highlighted
“Invigilators and Scouts who negligently allow malpractice to take place under their watch will be dealt with under Section 26 (1) (g), which provides for a maximum term of imprisonment of five years upon conviction.” She cautioned
Members of the public have been advised to report suspected malpractice via toll-free numbers 0800-111-427 or 0800-211-077. “The informer will be protected under the Boards ‘Whistle Blower’s policy.” Jenifer emphasized
UNEB has also reminded schools to adhere to guidelines for preventing and controlling Mpox, just like it has previously been with PLE and UACE Exams.
“Schools should provide clean water and soap/ or hand sanitizers for washing hands outside the examination halls. They should also clean the publicly used surfaces like desks as regularly as possible.” Jenifer said
The UACE examination will run until Friday, December 6, 2024. UNEB reassures candidates that the examination questions are based on their studies and encourages them to avoid malpractice.
UNEB commits to conducting valid, reliable, equitable, and quality assessments, awarding internationally recognized certificates.
