Learners who sat for the Uganda Certificate of Education under the previous curriculum are proposed to be given a singular opportunity to sit for an examination allowing them to progress to A-level. This proposal, outlined in a document presented by the Ministry of Education to Parliament, has sparked considerable debate, with many Members of Parliament (MPs) expressing concerns that a one-time chance may not be sufficient.
The parliamentary discussion ensued after the Ministry of Education presented a strategy document outlining the transition from lower to upper secondary education under the new competence-based curriculum. Concerns were raised about the lack of clarity in previous years regarding provisions for students who might not pass the final official assessment under the old curriculum, as well as for those who may have missed or failed to register for examinations due to various reasons.
Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaduccu, the State Minister in Charge of Primary Education, presented the transition plan to Parliament, indicating that Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) would administer a one-time examination to accommodate various affected groups. This includes candidates who wish to retake the exam voluntarily, those who registered but did not sit for it, and those who missed registration due to different circumstances. Additionally, adult learners pursuing independent study or attending learning facilities will also be included.
However, concerns were raised by MPs regarding the adequacy of this one-time opportunity and the potential for unforeseen circumstances preventing candidates from taking advantage of it. Questions were also raised about the timing and logistics of the examinations.
Furthermore, MPs discovered that the Ministry and the Curriculum Development Centre had not completed the A-level Competence-Based Curriculum, leading to further uncertainty about the future of learners completing their O-level studies. The Minister assured the house that steps were being taken to review and implement the upper secondary curriculum, including consultation with stakeholders and the development of curriculum materials.
The Speaker expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the matter, noting the slow progress in reviewing the A-level education system and the lack of clarity regarding the structure of A-level studies for current lower secondary learners.
In response to these concerns, the Minister acknowledged the need for more information and requested to return to the ministry for further consultation before providing comprehensive details to Parliament. Additionally, MPs criticized the lack of thorough debate and discussion on the competence-based curriculum when it was initially passed, suggesting that early stakeholder engagement could have preempted some of the current challenges.
