UNEB confirms smooth start of UCE exams as over 432,000 candidates sit

13 October 2025, 5:19 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has confirmed a successful start to the 2025 Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations across the country, with no major disruptions reported.

Speaking to journalists at the Police Headquarters in Naguru, Kampala, UNEB spokesperson Jennifer Kalule Musamba said a total of 432,159 candidates are sitting for the examinations this year. Of these, 52.7 percent are female while 47.3 percent are male.

Kalule revealed that 6,779 candidates have special needs, and the Board is providing necessary support, including an extra 45 minutes for those who qualify. Among these, 28 candidates are blind, 60 are deaf, 113 have low vision, and 73 have severe physical handicaps. UNEB has deployed 190 specialized personnel to assist such learners.

“We have had a successful start countrywide, without any major disruptions. The weather has been good, and we were able to deliver all the examination materials to all stations in good time,” Kalule said. “We continue to call upon all stakeholders to uphold the security and sacredness of examinations. This is the only way to ensure that learners’ certificates truly reflect their abilities.”

This year’s exams are being conducted under the theme: Embracing Security and Holistic Assessment of Learners in a Dynamic Environment.

Kalule also addressed concerns about teachers currently on strike, noting that UNEB had engaged them and they agreed to perform their duties during the UCE period. She appealed to them to do the same during the upcoming Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) and Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) sessions.

Regarding the case of a school in Nakifuma where a headteacher registered only three out of sixteen learners, Kalule said UNEB intervened but could not help as it was too late for registration. She advised parents to closely follow up on their children’s education and ensure they are duly registered for national examinations.

UNEB further warned the public against dealing with fraudsters circulating fake examination materials.

“The public is cautioned against unauthorized possession of any material or information purported to be a UNEB examination paper. This includes online sharing or possession of electronic versions,” Kalule warned.

She reminded the public that under Sections 24 and 25 of the UNEB Act, CAP 259, anyone found with such materials commits an offence punishable by a fine of up to UGX 20 million or five years imprisonment, or both.