The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has warned against the use of boda boda riders to distribute examination papers during this year’s final exams.
This warning follows misunderstandings from earlier engagements with education officials and supervisors regarding the distribution of exam materials.
In a statement, UNEB executive director Dan Odongo highlighted the importance of maintaining integrity in the examination process.
“We are not against the use of motorcycles for distribution, but boda boda riders must not be assigned this role due to past malpractice issues,” he said.
On the security of the examinations, Odongo stressed the necessity of preserving the integrity of the process.
“We must ensure the integrity of the exams. Malpractice compromises the authenticity of a candidate’s results and the educational system as a whole,” he said.
The board has implemented measures to prevent malpractice and provided clear guidelines for candidates.
“Any involvement in examination malpractice in one paper will result in the cancellation of the entire exam,” Odongo warned, urging all stakeholders to remain vigilant.
He underscored the significance of the upcoming examinations. Odongo reiterated the consequences of malpractice, cautioning.
“Involvement in examination malpractice in even one paper may lead to the cancellation of results for the entire examination, so candidates must be vigilant and adhere to the rules,” he stated.
He reminded candidates and their guardians of the importance of understanding the examination timetable, which outlines regulations.
Additionally, Odongo encouraged parents and guardians to actively support their children’s preparations.
“Parents should counsel their children against any acts of indiscipline, as such behavior could jeopardize their chances of sitting for the examinations,” he said.
Odongo reminde heads of Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) centers about critical deadlines.
“Heads of UCE Centers must ensure that project achievements and Continuous Assessment (CA) scores are submitted to UNEB by the new deadline of October 30, 2024. Failure to submit will result in candidates not being graded,” he stated.
A total of 1,320,400 candidates are set to sit for the 2024 exams, marking a 7.8% increase compared to 2023.
Of this number, 379,620 candidates are registered for the UCE exams, while 798,763 will sit for the PLE.
The UACE has also seen an increase, with 142,017 students expected to participate this year.
UNEB has officially released the timetable for the 2024 national examinations, marking the introduction of the first cohort of candidates for the New Lower Secondary Curriculum (NLSC).
The four major exams this year, referred to as the 4Es, include the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) under both the new and old curricula, the Primary Leaving Examination (PLE), and the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE).
Odongo emphasized that the 2024 exams will differ from previous years, particularly with the introduction of the NLSC.