The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has intensified its efforts to curb examination malpractice by doubling its presence in areas identified as malpractice hotspots.

This move comes as Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) commenced across the country on Wednesday morning.

Rose Nabukenya Mukasa, the Principal Examination Officer in charge of PLE at UNEB, highlighted that the Board has been analyzing data and identified several regions where malpractice cases have consistently emerged. 

According to available information, UNEB has deployed over 13,000 contracted professionals, including monitors, scouts, and invigilators, to oversee the smooth running of the exams. 

Additionally, 600 security personnel have been deployed to safeguard the examination process. Sources reveal that as part of efforts to reduce malpractice, local governments have reorganized main exam centers, particularly in schools previously implicated in cheating.

Henry Lwanga, the Nansana Municipal Education Officer confirmed this development, noting that these schools have been moved to different centers where they can be closely monitored. 

Before the examinations began, UNEB and the police arrested four teachers for allegedly distributing fake PLE papers, selling them for as much as 750,000 Shillings.

The teachers – Vincent Bakashaba (Kimongole Primary School, Isingiro), Vincent Muheki (Vision Primary School, Ibanda), Albert Pabeku (Stoneridge Primary School, Kira), and Hosea Oyet (Dignitary Junior School, Rukungiri) – pleaded guilty to the charges on Tuesday and are now awaiting sentencing.  

By Our Reporter

6 Nov 2024

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