The Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) 2025 examinations have officially begun, marking the third and final series of national assessments this year.
Candidates were briefed at their respective schools on Friday, as the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) launches the exams under the theme: “Embracing Security and Holistic Assessment of Learners in a Dynamic Environment.”
The theme, carried over from last year, emphasizes safeguarding the integrity of the examinations while promoting a holistic approach to assessing students’ competencies. UNEB Executive Director, Dan N. Odongo, noted that this approach aligns with global trends in inclusive education and ensures learners’ results genuinely reflect their abilities.
The UACE examinations follow the conclusion of the four-week Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) exams and the recently conducted Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) held from 3rd to 4th November 2025. Odongo expressed gratitude to the Uganda National Teachers’ Union for calling off their industrial action, which enabled teachers to supervise the PLE effectively.
This year, a total of 166,402 candidates are registered for UACE, up from 141,996 last year, a 14.6% increase. Exams will be held at 2,844 centers across the country. Of these candidates, 25% (42,328) are government-sponsored under the Universal Post Level Education and Training (UPOLET) program, while 75% (124,074) are privately sponsored. Female candidates’ number 77,772 (44%), with males at 93,630 (56%).
The exams will run from Monday, 10th November, to Friday, 5th December 2025.
UNEB has issued a stern warning against examination malpractice. Security agencies have already arrested several individuals involved in malpractice during PLE and UCE exams. Offenders risk five to ten years in prison, fines of 20 to 40 million shillings, or both, while negligent invigilators face up to five years’ imprisonment.
The Board encourages the public to report any suspected malpractice via toll-free lines 0800-111-427 and 0800-211-077, under the protection of the Whistle Blowers Policy.
Odongo reassured candidates, urging them to remain calm and confident, follow instructions, and avoid falling prey to anyone claiming to have access to exam papers.
He reminded students that the examinations are a pathway to their future careers, not an end in themselves, and called upon parents, religious leaders, and well-wishers to continue praying for their success.
