By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu,
National
The board acknowledges the joint efforts of various stakeholders in ensuring a smooth conduct of the examinations under the theme of “Integrity and Security in the Management of Examinations.”
Despite unfavorable weather conditions in some areas, UNEB, in collaboration with District Authorities, found alternative and shorter distribution routes. In some cases, new venues were authorized as siting centers to mitigate the effects of the rain. These measures ensured that examination papers were delivered on time at all centers nationwide.
In terms of malpractice, UNEB is pleased to confirm that there was no leakage of examination papers. Not a single candidate had prior knowledge of the PLE papers before the official start time. The public played a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the examinations, with several whistle-blowers promptly reporting intended cases of malpractice. These cases were swiftly intercepted by the UNEB security team and the police as confirmed by Kalule Musamba the board principle public relations officer.
She revealed that despite several attempts made by certain headteachers and school directors to bribe UNEB scouts and invigilators for external assistance to candidates, the majority of UNEB personnel stood firm in upholding the values of integrity and security of examinations. Many resisted these bribes, thereby ensuring the sanctity of the examination process at their respective centers.
However, an unfortunate incident occurred in Kyebando, resulting in the arrest of Mr. Baka David, the Director and Head Teacher of His Grace Primary School, along with Chief Invigilator Mr. Kakuru Gerald and scout Mr. Lwanga Brian. The trio was caught cutting a security envelope containing Science papers that had been delivered for the examination.
It is alleged that they intended to share the papers online and provide external assistance to candidates. The UNEB Security team, with the assistance of the police, swiftly responded to a tip-off, preventing any photographs of the paper from being taken. Additionally, nine other invigilators who were deemed negligent in allowing this attempted malpractice to take place were arrested. All twelve individuals are currently in police custody and will be brought to court as soon as the necessary files are prepared.
Kalule also revealed that in different parts of the country, over ten scouts and invigilators have been arrested for attempting to provide external assistance to candidates. In Nabweru, a scout posted at Lyn Primary School was caught writing answers on the blackboard for the candidates. The individual has been apprehended and will face charges of aiding and abetting malpractice in the form of external assistance when they appear in court.
In another incident near Kampala, specifically in Kajansi, a scout impersonating a UNEB staff member attempted to deceive authorities at a school in Lubowa for financial gain. This impersonation led to their arrest by the police.
UNEB scouts have also reported concerted efforts to provide external assistance to candidates in most schools in Fortportal and Kabarole. However, these attempts were foiled, and the intended malpractice was intercepted.
UNEB commends the vigilance and integrity demonstrated by its field personnel, the police, and the public. With joint responsibility and commitment, the sanctity of the examination process was maintained, ensuring fairness and equality for all candidates. UNEB remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity and security in the management of examinations.
