A total of 108 inmates on Monday, October 14, 2024, started sitting for the 2024 Uganda Certificate of Education examinations from different prison facilities across the country.
The candidates comprise inmates participating in a correctional program aimed at rehabilitation and empowerment.
Gilbert Niwamanya, the Head Teacher at Upper Prison, reported that 109 inmates are taking the UCE exams this year, including 108 males and one female. Of these, 98 candidates are from Upper Prison, while 11 are from Mbarara Prison.
Niwamanya expressed confidence in the inmates’ preparation, stating, “I am hopeful that all of them are going to pass highly, as the teachers have done their best to guide them throughout the year.”
The inmates shared a positive outlook regarding the exams.
Hashaka Mali, a candidate, said, “We started with mathematics, and I am confident we will all pass highly.”
Jamir Kafeero, another candidate, is optimistic that he will pass all the papers. “I believe I will pass all the papers.”
Oyoo Bosco, a teacher at Upper Prison Secondary School, confirmed their progress, noting, “We have been able to integrate all the activities of the new curriculum, and I am hopeful that this year’s performance will be better.”
Joweria Kaweesi, the only female candidate, expressed gratitude for the new curriculum, stating, “It is easy to understand and requires critical thinking, not just cram work to pass.” She added, “I am hopeful that I will pass with flying colors.”
The notably low number of female candidates has raised concerns. Senior Commissioner of Prisons Frank Baine explained that many female inmates face emotional and psychological challenges, which can hinder their commitment to educational programs.
The participation of inmates in national exams represents a promising step toward reform and reintegration, providing them with a second chance beyond prison walls.
A total of 1,320,400 candidates are set to sit for the 2024 exams, marking a 7.8% increase compared to 2023.
This includes 379,620 candidates registered for the UCE exams and 798,763 for the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE). The Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) will also see an increase, with 142,017 students participating this year.
The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) launched the new Lower Secondary Curriculum (NLSC) with its first examination session.
Jennifer Kalule, UNEB Principal Public Relations Officer, remarked, “This is a unique year in the history of UNEB, as we are conducting two sets of Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations simultaneously.”
She highlighted that 379,748 candidates are sitting for both exams, with 369,601 being pioneers of the new curriculum and 10,147 taking the transitional examination.