The Ministry of Education has banned the publication of UNEB results for candidates at all levels in the media.
In a May, 7 circular to heads of institutions of learning by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda said despite a previous warning, there is continued display of individual candidates’ scores, result slips, and photographs across various public media channels and billboards.
This practice is in violation of the Data Protection and Privacy Act, 2019,” Dr.Turyagyenda said.
“During the release of the 2024 results for the Primary Leaving Examination (PLE), Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE), and Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE), the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, cautioned Headteachers and Proprietors of Schools against publicizing candidates’ results. This directive is aligned with the Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding the privacy, dignity, and well-being of all learners, ensuring that academic achievements are handled with discretion in accordance with the law.”
The Permanent Secretary said school heads have a responsibility to uphold and protect the rights and welfare of students.
“Publicizing examination results not only breaches legal provisions but also exposes learners and their families to undue stress, anxiety, and possible harassment or stigma. Such actions are deemed unlawful under Part VIII, Section 36 (1-2) of the Data Protection and Privacy Act, 2019, which prescribes penalties for noncompliance.”
Going forward, the Ministry of Education has directed all schools to avoid using candidates’ examination results for advertising or marketing purposes
“Schools are instead encouraged to showcase the holistic educational experience they offer, including extracurricular activities, community engagement, and institutional development initiatives,” the Permanent Secretary said.
“ Ensure examination results are communicated privately to students and their parents/guardians through official channels, such as sealed school letters or secure digital platforms. Schools must refrain from displaying results on notice boards, social media platforms, or any other public forums.”
The PS said, where necessary, a general performance summary may be shared without revealing names or photographs of individual candidates.
