This directive was delivered during the police’s weekly press briefing about the security of examinations just as students nationwide embarked on their Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations today.
Jennifer Kalule Musamba, the UNEB principal public relations officer, emphasized that no candidate should be denied the opportunity to sit for their exams, regardless of circumstances.
“We advised parents and head teachers to address the issue of school fees balances before the start of the examinations. Now that that examinations have started, we request Head Teachers to avoid the act of blocking candidates from accessing the examination rooms or pulling them out due to fees balances.” She remarked.
Musamba noted that blocking students from accessing examination room affects the performance of the candidate and is also a big threat to the security pf the examinations. “This is a big threat to the security of the examinations and greatly affects the performance of the candidates.”
However, she assured that the examination board will collaborate with schools to implement measures that allow them to recover fees when the examination results are released.
“The Board will work with schools to put in place measures to assist them recover their fees at the time of release of results.” She noted.
In addition to the advisory for schools, UNEB called on candidates to behave appropriately throughout the examination period clarifying that if any candidate misbehaves and is punished by their school, UNEB will not intervene
“We also warn candidates against acts of indiscipline. The fact that you are candidates does not absolve you from following school regulations. UNEB will neither be involved nor sympathize with a candidate in a case where such a candidate is subjected to disciplinary measures by the school on account of indiscipline.” She said.
The board also highlighted its commitment to tackling examination malpractice. Whistleblowers have been urged to report any incidents of cheating or misconduct.
To encourage transparency, UNEB assured whistleblowers of protection under the Whistleblowers Protection Act and offered a reward for credible reports.
As thousands of students across the country begin their UCE exams, the board noted that the process will proceed smoothly, encouraging all stakeholders to work together to uphold integrity.
The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has issued a stern warning to headteachers, urging them not to prevent Senior Four (S4) candidates from accessing examination rooms or remove them during exams due to school fees balances.
