Government has warned schools across the country against stopping learners from sitting for their final examinations for having fees arrears.
The warning was issued by State Minister for Higher Education, John Chrysostom Muyingo, during a visit to the Uganda National Examinations Board (Uneb) headquarters.
He urged school heads to show empathy during this crucial academic season.
“Let learners do exams even when they have fees balances,” Muyingo emphasized, adding that the government would help schools recover their money after results are released.
“You will be helped to recover your money when exam results come out,” he said.
The minister’s remarks follow growing reports of schools blocking candidates from sitting the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) exams over unpaid fees.
To ensure the directive is respected, Muyingo conducted unannounced visits to several schools in Kampala, including: Kyambogo College School, Kitante Hill School, Kololo Secondary School, Kyambogo Primary School and Kitante Primary School.
He noted that most schools appeared ready for the examinations, with teachers available to support learners in their final revision.
Despite ongoing industrial action by arts teachers, the minister expressed optimism that educators who had stepped away would soon resume duty to guide candidates.
UNEB Executive Director Dan Odongo reassured the public that all examination processes were still on track.
“The teachers we work with understand their contract obligations. They come, do the work, and go. So we don’texpectany disappointment,” Odongo said.
The Minster also thanked teachers for their professionalism and turning up to supervise the examinations as per the reports.
