Tororo Schools Commend New Curriculum as UCE Exams Kick Off
Out of these, 4,080 candidates are under the new curriculum, while only 42 are registered under the old system.
As Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) exams officially began this year, Tororo District has seen a notable increase in candidates, with 4,146 students sitting for their first papers in Mathematics and Chemistry.
Out of these, 4,080 candidates are under the new curriculum, while only 42 are registered under the old system.
This year's exams mark a significant milestone as students experience the new curriculum’s examination format for the first time.
Schools in Tororo have widely embraced the shift, with both students and administrators commending the change.
The Nile Post visited several schools across the district to gain insight into how the new curriculum is being received compared to the old one.
At St. Peter’s College Tororo, 172 candidates are sitting for the exams, with students expressing optimism about their performance. Edgar Willins, a candidate who had just finished his Mathematics paper, described the exam as flexible and manageable.
"We are really appreciative of UNEB for the new curriculum. It focuses on applying concepts learned in class, making the exams more practical and related to real-life situations," said Willins.
Henry Alfred Olipot, another student, echoed these sentiments, stating, "The questions were easy to attempt because we were well-prepared. The exam felt practical and straightforward." He is hopeful for a good performance.
The school's deputy headteacher, Francis Emukol, reported that all 172 registered candidates turned up for the exams. He credited his teaching staff’s dedication for the students’ preparedness and smooth start to the exams.
"Our teachers have been very committed to preparing the students, and we expect good performance this time round," Emukol said.
Emukol also pointed out the financial advantages of the new curriculum, stating that the school has saved about 50% of its usual exam preparation costs due to subject consolidation.
At Mama Kevina Secondary School, where 259 candidates (109 boys and 150 girls) are registered, there was a similarly positive response.
Ryan Koko, a mathematics teacher at the school, praised the new exam structure for its focus on applying concepts, which he said made it easier for students to engage with the questions.
Tororo Municipality registered 1,666 candidates, while the district recorded 2,440 candidates overall.
The introduction of the new curriculum, which emphasizes practical skills and concept application, has been well-received by both students and teachers.
Many are hopeful that this new approach will lead to improved performance and a more streamlined education process in the years ahead.