Overview of the 2025 UACE Examinations
The 2025 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations have commenced, marking the final phase of this year’s national examination cycle. This year, a total of 166,402 candidates across Uganda are sitting for the exams, which is a 14.6 percent increase compared to the 141,996 candidates who took the same exams in 2024. The exams are being held in 2,844 centers nationwide.
Of the total number of candidates, 42,328 (25 percent) are funded by the government under the Universal Post-O-Level Education and Training programme, while the remaining 124,074 (75 percent) are privately sponsored. The gender distribution shows that 93,630 males (56 percent) and 77,772 females (44 percent) are taking part in the exams.
Enhanced Security Measures
Uneb Executive Director Dan Odongo has emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the examination process. He stated that security agencies have already arrested several individuals involved in malpractice during the previous examinations, such as the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) and the Primary Leaving Examination (PLE). These security measures will continue throughout the UACE examinations to ensure a fair and transparent process.
Strict Penalties for Malpractice
Uneb has issued a strong warning against any form of cheating or facilitating malpractice during the exams. Under the Uneb Act, CAP 259, offenders can face severe penalties, including five to 10 years in prison, fines ranging from Shs20m to Shs40m, or both. Invigilators and scouts who allow malpractice are also liable to prosecution under Section 26(1)(g) of the Act, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison upon conviction.
Recent Examinations and Future Plans
The UACE examinations come shortly after the completion of the Uganda Certificate of Education exams, which ran for four weeks and concluded last week. The PLE was conducted earlier from November 3 to 4. Mr. Odongo urged the public to report any suspicious activities and called on all stakeholders—teachers, parents, and local leaders—to support the candidates through guidance and encouragement.
He reminded the candidates that they have what it takes to pass the examination and cautioned them against being deceived by individuals claiming to have access to leaked exam papers or offering illegal assistance during the exams. Such acts could lead to disqualification and cancellation of results.
Commitment to Integrity and Transparency
Uneb officials have emphasized that the focus this year is on integrity, transparency, and fairness. Mr. Odongo reaffirmed that security personnel will work closely with district supervisors and invigilators to ensure compliance with examination guidelines. He encouraged candidates to remain disciplined, confident, and to follow instructions. “We pray for God’s blessing upon all candidates and everyone involved in the conduct of the examinations,” he said.
Staying Updated
To stay updated with the latest news and developments related to the UACE examinations, readers are encouraged to follow the Daily Monitor Telegram and WhatsApp channels. These platforms provide real-time updates and important information about the examination process.
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