NELSON K
Institutional students and technical school administrators across the country have expressed deep dissatisfaction over the continued delay in the release of UBITEB—now UVITAB—examination results, six months after they were sat in December 2024.
The delay follows the merging of the Uganda Business and Technical Examinations Board (UBITEB) with the Directorate of Industrial Training (DIT), forming a new body—the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVITAB)—a process many say has disrupted the system.
Speaking to Boona FM, Abel Bashome, the Principal of Gables Vocational Institute, said the delayed results have disrupted academic calendars, created uncertainty, and dampened students’ morale.
He noted that students are increasingly growing anxious and hopeless, with many now unable to pursue job opportunities or retake courses without their results. He expressed support for possible student-led strikes as a form of expressing their frustration.
However, Bashome remained hopeful that results may be released in the first two weeks of June, following the conclusion of the ongoing UVITAB examination monitoring activities.
At Kanyinya Vocational Training Institute, Principal Obadiah Rukaraama echoed similar concerns but noted that their hands are tied as decisions on the results rest solely with the UVITAB authorities.
Rukaraama also hinted that the merging of agencies contributed to the delays, urging students to remain patient as they await feedback from the new board.
Meanwhile, Behangana Francis, Principal of Kabira Technical Institute in Mitooma district, told Boona FM that the delay has blocked students from seeking jobs or upgrading their studies due to a lack of official documentation.
He said that although their institutions equip students with hands-on technical skills, the absence of results has left graduates in limbo.
Some finalists, including Mugumya Seith, expressed deep frustration and hopelessness during interviews with Boona FM. They say the six-month delay has shattered their plans for employment and further education, leaving them feeling stranded.
The students warned that they may resort to peaceful protests, strikes, and street campaigns, calling on UVITAB and the Ministry of Education and Sports, led by First Lady Janet Kataha Museveni, to act swiftly.
In April this year, UVITAB attributed the delay in releasing the results to the absence of a Governing Board, further complicating the situation.
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