UNEB Extends Registration, Warns Schools Against Fraudulent Practices

The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has granted a month-long extension for the registration of candidates for the 2026 Primary Leaving Examination (PLE), Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE), and Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) exams. The deadline has been moved from May 31 to June 30, 2026.

This extension aims to accommodate newly accredited centers and those experiencing increased learner numbers. However, UNEB Executive Director Daniel Odongo cautioned schools against complacency, urging them to complete registrations promptly to avoid last-minute congestion.

Odongo also addressed a critical issue: the fraudulent registration of privately sponsored students as government-sponsored candidates, particularly in primary schools. He highlighted that this practice not only defrauds the government but also imposes an unnecessary financial burden on taxpayers. Schools found engaging in this conduct, which involves falsely claiming government sponsorship for students while still collecting fees from parents, face substantial penalties.

Consequences for schools engaging in such fraudulent activities include being ordered to refund double the amount involved, potential prosecution under relevant fraud laws, and the possible withdrawal of their examination center accreditation.

UNEB reiterated that government sponsorship covers candidates under UPE, USE, and Post O-Level programs. Private candidates and those registering late will continue to pay prescribed fees, with late registrants facing surcharges of 100% for PLE and 50% for UCE and UACE. The board also warned against any unauthorized “UNEB fees” being charged by schools.

Parents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious charges or instances where school administrators disappear after collecting examination fees without registering candidates as prescribed by UNEB.

This warning is a critical reminder of the integrity required in the examination registration process to ensure fairness and accurate accountability. https://observer.ug/news/uneb-warns-schools-over-fake-candidate-registrations