Kagadi S6 Candidates, Schools Warned Against UACE Examination Malpractice: A Call for Ethical Conduct
The Uganda National Examinations Board (Uneb) has issued a stern warning to senior six candidates and schools in Kagadi District, urging them to uphold academic integrity during the upcoming Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) exams. The exams, set to commence on Monday, November 11, are a crucial milestone for these students, and the board emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct.
The Uneb Supervisor, Ramadan Nyondo Barongo, addressed 277 S.6 candidates at Kagadi Secondary School, part of a larger group of over 1,000 students across nine centers in the district. He emphasized the potential consequences of examination malpractice, stating, 'I want to warn students, headteachers, and teachers not to risk taking part in examination malpractice. This can lead to cancellation of results and prosecution in the courts of law. For those with examination centers, they can be withheld.'
Barongo's message is clear: the exams are an opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge and skills, not a platform for unethical behavior. He encouraged candidates to utilize their remaining time effectively, focusing on final preparations and emphasizing that the exams are designed to assess their learning, not to fail them. He said, 'We have all done exams before, from primary up to S6. The only difference is that it’s Uneb, but these papers are meant to prepare you for the next level in the education cycle. So take heart, enter the exams, and provide the correct answers.'
The supervisor also called on parents to play a supportive role, creating a conducive environment for their children's studies, ensuring proper nutrition, and encouraging prayers. For day scholars, he advised parents to provide the necessary conditions for focus, acknowledging the stress of exams and the potential impact on students' health and future prospects if support is lacking.
Despite the caution, the S.6 candidates from schools like Kagadi Secondary School, Kagadi Peoples Secondary School, Kagadi Academy Secondary School, and Bunyoro College Secondary expressed confidence in their abilities. They attributed their preparedness to early revision, seminars, and guidance from teachers and examiners, showcasing a positive attitude towards the exams.
However, the board's warning serves as a reminder that academic integrity is paramount. The potential consequences of malpractice, including result cancellations and legal prosecution, highlight the importance of ethical conduct. As the exams approach, the district's students and schools must navigate this critical period with a commitment to honesty and integrity, ensuring a fair and successful outcome for all.
