The Uganda National Examination Board (UNEB) a corporate body mandated to conduct and manage examinations in Uganda, has appealed for an additional Shs6.5 billion in the 2024/2025 budget to cover the cost of providing five daily meals, utilities, and basic health services for examiners and checkers during examination marking. This request comes in the face of a significant budget shortfall, with only Shs10.2 billion allocated against a required Shs26.9 billion, leaving a gap of Shs16.7 billion.
In addition to this, UNEB is also seeking an extra Shs4.6 billion to increase marking fees for examiners. The current rates are deemed insufficient, and the Parliament's Education Committee recognizes the need to adequately compensate examiners to address the shortage and ensure the quality of the examination marking process.
Moreover, UNEB has highlighted the need for Shs1.3 billion to enhance the security features on result slips issued to learners. This funding is crucial for covering ICT consumables required for the processing and printing of examinations, especially given the rising costs in this area.
The Ministry of Education and Sports is also pushing for an additional Shs30.2 billion to facilitate the smooth takeover of 100 secondary schools by communities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that lack the financial means to manage them. This initiative aims to ensure that these schools continue to operate effectively and provide quality education.
Furthermore, the Ministry requires Shs6.4 billion to support 100 primary schools. Each secondary school takeover is estimated to cost Shs300 million, while each primary school requires Shs64 million, culminating in a total requirement of Shs36.3 billion. These funds are critical for the seamless transition and management of the schools.
The Parliamentary Committee on Education has been briefed on the Ministry's plans to acquire schools across the nation. However, the requested funds are not currently included in the Ministry's national budget for the fiscal year 2024/2025.
The Education Committee and the Ministry of Education and Sports are now faced with the challenge of securing the necessary funds to address these budgetary shortfalls and ensure the continued provision of essential services and support for the education sector.
The success of these initiatives hinges on the government's ability to allocate the required resources and prioritize the needs of the education system. As the budget discussions continue, stakeholders are hopeful that the necessary adjustments will be made to bridge the funding gaps and support the critical work of Uganda National Examinations Board and the Ministry of Education and Sports.
