The Uganda Business and Technical Examinations Board (UBTEB) has officially commenced its July/August examination series across the nation.
A total of 58,995 candidates are registered for these exams, spanning various academic disciplines including business, departmental, and technical programs.
UBTEB Executive Secretary Onesmus Oyesigye noted a significant increase in female candidates enrolling in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs compared to previous years. Women are predominantly pursuing fields such as fashion and design, plumbing, and electrical engineering.
The examinations began with a briefing exercise on August 2nd and are scheduled to conclude on August 30th, 2024.
Oyesigye emphasized the importance of a smooth examination process.
"We hope that all centers briefed candidates on August 2nd as expected to ensure the seamless conduct of examinations," he stated.
In a move towards more inclusive education, UBTEB has enrolled 76 candidates with special needs, who will benefit from special arrangements including sign language interpreters, transcribers, and guides.
Oyesigye highlighted that over 100 support personnel have been deployed to assist these candidates.
To combat examination malpractices, Oyesigye urged Heads of Centres to ensure that institutional examination task forces are well-briefed and adhere to UBTEB's rules and standards.
"This task force is responsible for ensuring examinations are conducted according to UBTEB's guidelines. Heads of Centres should emphasize the penalties for malpractices and remain present at training institutions throughout the examination period."
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He reported significant progress in reducing examination malpractices, attributing this to heightened awareness and the integration of examination taskforces.
As part of their zero-tolerance policy towards malpractices, the Board conducted pre-inspections of selected examination centers to ensure their readiness and adherence to UBTEB's rules for Competence-Based examinations.
Additionally, a team of senior managers has been dispatched to participate in candidate briefings at selected centers to ensure compliance with examination rules and guidelines.
Over 600 Reconnoiters and monitors have been deployed, alongside more than 4,000 Practical Assessors and verifiers for on-the-spot assessments of practical modules.
Oyesigye urged all candidates to avoid any form of examination malpractice, warning that such behavior could lead to the cancellation of their entire semester.
