Over 1,600 Pass UBTEB Exams; 34 TVET Candidates’ Results Canceled Due to Malpractice

 

# UBTEB Cancels Results for 34 Candidates Due to Malpractice; Over 1,600 Pass Exams

The Uganda Business and Technical Examinations Board (UBTEB) has announced the cancellation of exam results for 34 candidates found guilty of examination malpractice. This decision was revealed during the release of the May/June 2024 examination results, where Onesmus Oyesigye, the Executive Secretary of UBTEB, provided insights into the board’s findings and the overall performance of candidates.

## Investigation and Consequences

Oyesigye emphasized that each of the affected candidates underwent a thorough investigation and were given a fair hearing before the final decision was made. In accordance with Section 9 (3) of the UBTEB regulations, the board has recommended that these candidates repeat the entire semester. “The board is now recommending the cancellation of the entire semester for the 34 affected candidates,” he stated, underscoring the board’s commitment to upholding academic integrity.

## Examination Results Overview

In contrast to the unfortunate situation regarding the 34 candidates, the results for the remaining candidates were largely positive. Out of a total of 1,694 candidates who sat for the examinations, an impressive 1,468—representing 87%—achieved full competence and successfully completed their courses. Oyesigye noted that these candidates are now eligible for further training opportunities, both horizontally and vertically, as outlined in the TVET Policy of 2019.

For the 226 candidates who did not complete their courses, UBTEB has provided an opportunity to re-sit their exams in the next series, allowing them a chance to improve their competencies.

## Gender Performance

The examination results also revealed interesting trends in gender performance. At the diploma level, the acquisition rate was 79% for female candidates and a notable 95% for males. However, the performance gap was much narrower at the certificate level, with females passing at 84% and males at 85%. Oyesigye attributed the overall success to various factors, including continuous assessment, industrial training, and practical evaluations.

## Government Commitment to TVET

Joyce Moriku Kaducu, the Minister of State for Primary Education, spoke on behalf of the First Lady, Janet Museveni, highlighting the government’s commitment to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). She emphasized the critical role that TVET plays in equipping the youth with practical skills needed in the job market. “The government is committed to strengthening the sector through several initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of TVET,” Kaducu stated. She also mentioned ongoing reforms and efforts to enact a TVET law, which aims to streamline the subsector.

## Stance Against Examination Malpractice

Addressing the issue of examination malpractice, Kaducu supported the UBTEB’s recommendation to cancel the results of the 34 candidates involved. She reinforced the ministry’s zero-tolerance policy towards any form of malpractice, urging TVET institutions and trainees to adhere to ethical standards in their academic pursuits. “The ministry does not tolerate any form of examination malpractice and condemns it,” she asserted.

## Conclusion

In summary, while the cancellation of results for 34 candidates serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity in examinations, the overall performance of the majority of candidates reflects positively on the efforts of UBTEB and the TVET system. With a significant number of candidates passing and eligible for further training, the future of vocational education in Uganda looks promising. As the government continues to invest in and reform the sector, the focus remains on equipping the youth with the skills necessary for success in the competitive job market.