The Uganda Business and Technical Examinations Board (UBTEB) has announced a 20% increase in the number of candidates that sat for the Uganda Community Polytechnic Certificates (UCPC) in 2023 compared to the November/ December 2022 exams.
Speaking at the release of the November/ December 2023 UCPC results, Dr Onesmus Oyesigye, the Executive Secretary, UBTEB, said in this particular series, the board registered a total of 4,474 candidates, with 4,344 candidates (97%) appearing for the examinations and 130 candidates (3%) absent.
“Compared to the Nov/Dec 2022 examinations, there is a 20% increase in the number of candidates from 3,742 in 2022, this trend is expected to continue upwards and there is a need to prepare for these numbers,” he said.
Oyesigye attributed the increase in candidate numbers to ongoing advocacy for TVET skills, increased awareness among citizens about vocational skills acquisition, and a change in admissions criteria that prioritize students’ interest in pursuing their desired courses over grades obtained at lower levels of education.
He noted that out of the 4,344 candidates who sat for examinations, 4,059 candidates (93%) successfully acquired all competencies in their respective trades.
Compared to November/ December 2022 Examinations results with 3,742 registered candidates, 3,263 sat and 2411 (74%) completed, reflecting 19% performance improvement, (74% in 2022 to 93% in 2023.)
Dr. Eng. Silver Mugisha, the Board Chairperson, emphasized the importance of prioritizing the development of the TVET qualifications framework to guide the implementation of the TVET Policy 2019 and provide guidance on the recognition of prior learning.
He called for the expedited enactment of the TVET law to regulate and monitor all TVET players and ensure accountability for the quality of TVET delivery and assessment.