UCE Candidates Malpractice Could Cancel All Exam Results

The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has warned candidates sitting the 2026 Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations that involvement in examination malpractice in even one paper could lead to cancellation of results for the entire examination.

UNEB Executive Director Daniel Odongo issued the warning on Thursday as he officially commissioned the 2026 end-of-cycle examinations at the board’s offices in Kyambogo.

A total of 503,355 candidates have registered for the 2026 UCE examinations, representing a 16% increase from last year.

The registered candidates include 264,722 females and 238,333 males.

Odongo said candidates would first undergo a briefing at 2pm on Thursday, describing the exercise as a critical part of preparing them for the examinations.

He directed headteachers to personally conduct the briefing and ensure candidates understand the examination timetable, rules and regulations before entering the examination room.

Candidates are also required to go through the caution against examination malpractice contained on the reverse side of the examination timetable, as well as the instructions printed on the front page of the answer booklets.

Odongo said candidates must clearly understand the consequences of violating examination regulations.

“Candidates also must be informed that involvement in malpractice in any one paper shall lead to the cancellation of the results of the whole examination,” Odongo said.

He urged all examination stakeholders to protect the integrity of the assessment process by diligently carrying out their respective responsibilities.

The 2026 examinations are being conducted under the theme, “Advancing Excellence in Assessment and Certification through Secure, Credible, Inclusive and Innovative Processes.”

UNEB has also deployed 222 support personnel, including transcribers, to assist candidates requiring additional examination support.

Odongo said the board remained focused on ensuring that the examination process is secure, credible and reliable.

The UCE examinations are the first of three end-of-cycle examinations scheduled by UNEB, with the other two set to commence later.