Kibuku, (UG):- The Uganda National Examination Board (UNEB) has called for integrity and increased parental involvement among local officials in Kibuku District as the countdown to the 2024 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) begins.
The development was an outcome of the crucial briefing of invigilators and supervisors held on Friday, November 1st, 2024, at St. Andrews Church of Uganda where UNEB’s District Monitor, Ms Mutumba Elizabeth, gathered an assembly of key stakeholders, including Chief Invigilators, invigilators, headteachers, and security personnel.
She [Elizabeth] echoed the sentiment for parental support, highlighting the necessity for parents to provide adequate nutrition and to foster an environment conducive to learning and urged officials to act as supportive figures for students during the exams.
Kyaide Samuel, the Chairperson of the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) emphasized the vital role teachers play in shaping students’ futures and urged them to remain steadfast in their duties, warning against malpractices that could tarnish their commitment to education.
Addressing the pressing issue of last year’s disappointing student performance, Musakana Kalawuki Emmanuel, Chairperson of the Headteachers’ Association, pointed to a significant gap in parental engagement.
With 90% of parents failing to fulfil their responsibilities, he called on the Deputy Resident District Commissioner to mobilize local leaders and stakeholders in reinforcing the importance of parental involvement in education.
Meanwhile, Ms Nabirye Leticia, the District Inspector of Schools, expressed gratitude for the collective effort shown thus far in preparing for the examinations. She urged educators to remain professional and dedicated, particularly during this critical period, emphasizing that the integrity of the examination process depends on their commitment.
On his part, Mr Wamika Christopher, the District Education Officer, stressed the importance of discipline among examination officials, advising them to uphold the district’s reputation and ensure students receive proper nutrition throughout the examination period.
He reassured officials who had not yet received their October salaries of the ongoing payroll adjustments and reminded them of their shared responsibility to maintain the examination’s integrity.
The Deputy RDC, Matiya Mulindwa Kagugube, raised concerns about child labor in schools and local betting habits that distract from parental duties, urging teachers to prioritize the well-being and futures of their students.
Adding to the discourse, Hon. Hajji Muhammad Nakeba, Chairperson LC V Kibuku District, reinforced the directive against charging fees for loan processing in education and committed to ensuring the timely distribution of examination materials. He called for unity among political figures and educational authorities to facilitate a smooth examination process, especially in light of recent political tensions.
With over 4,500 pupils expected to participate across 46 centres, the PLE is set to commence with candidate briefings on November 4th, 2024, followed by examination days featuring Mathematics and Social Studies on November 6th and Science and English on November 7th.
In total, 182 invigilators, 46 chief invigilators, and 46 scouts have been enlisted to oversee the examinations in the eastern Uganda district.
As Kibuku District prepares for these critical examinations, UNEB emphasized that the collective commitment from educators, officials, and parents will play a crucial role in the success of the students and the integrity of the examination process.
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