With just weeks to the start of the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) exams, several schools along the Uganda–Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border have appealed to security agencies to step up vigilance and guarantee safety for candidates.
The calls come in the wake of last year’s tragic attack on Mpondwe Lhubirirha Secondary School in Kasese District, where dozens of students lost their lives in a suspected rebel assault.
The incident has since heightened anxiety among schools in the border region, many of which now fear similar threats during the upcoming national examinations.
Speaking to reporters, Gideon Masereka, a senior teacher at Nyabugando Baptist Vocational Secondary School, commended security forces for their continued night deployments around schools but stressed the need for “day-and-night vigilance” as examinations draw closer.
“We appreciate the efforts already in place, but during this crucial examination period, we need tighter security to ensure peace and confidence among learners,” he said.
At St. Maria Gorret Secondary School in Bwera, Deputy Head Teacher Annet Kabugho echoed the appeal, noting that heightened presence of security personnel would reassure both parents and students.
“The memory of the 2023 attack still lingers. Intensified patrols will give assurance of a peaceful examination period,” Kabugho said.
Meanwhile, Bwera Secondary School Head Teacher, Yokonia Bwambale, applauded police for their consistent patrols, saying their presence has been instrumental in deterring potential threats. He, however, emphasized the importance of sustaining these efforts, especially during the sensitive exam season.
Security remains a top priority for schools along the volatile border, where concerns of cross-border rebel activity persist. With UNEB exams set to begin in the coming weeks, education leaders are urging government and security agencies to act swiftly to safeguard learners and ensure uninterrupted examinations.