The 2023 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Examinations (UACE) has witnessed an unprecedented pass rate, with 99% of candidates qualifying for the UACE certificate. According to the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB), out of the 109,488 candidates who sat for the exams, a staggering 108,492 students successfully passed.
Uneb's executive director, Mr. Dan Odongo, announced these groundbreaking results during the release of the UACE exams on Thursday mid morning. He revealed that among the successful candidates, 52,452 obtained 3 Principal passes, 28,191 secured 2 Principal passes, and 18,624 managed to attain one principal pass. Additionally, 9,225 students achieved one subsidiary pass, while a mere 996 students failed the examinations.
Dan Odongo also highlighted the significance of these results, noting that they signify a significant improvement in overall performance and a substantial increase in examination entries compared to previous years.
He stated, "University admissions to degree courses have traditionally required a minimum of 2 Principal level passes. With this consideration, 80,643 candidates qualify for admission, representing a notable increase from 67,815 in the 2022 examinations."
Furthermore, Odongo emphasized the positive trend observed in the performance of female candidates, despite their lower representation compared to male candidates.
"Female candidates, though fewer in number, have consistently demonstrated better performance. The percentage of passes at the upper levels (3P and 2P) among female candidates is higher, while the failure rate is lower compared to their male counterparts." He stated.
UNEB also reported a significant increase in the number of candidates registered for the 2023 UACE, with a total of 110,553 learners enrolling for the examinations. This marks a notable rise of 12,663 candidates (12.9%) compared to the previous year. Of these candidates, 42.7% were females, indicating a slight increase in female representation compared to previous years.
Moreover, Dan Odongo addressed the enrollment under the UPOLET programme, noting that 24,679 candidates (22.3% of total candidature) were registered under the programme, reflecting an increase from 17,321 (17.7%) in 2022. He highlighted the gender disparity within this programme, with a greater number of male candidates enrolled compared to females.
UNEB's report underscores the success of the 2023 UACE, with a record-breaking pass rate and an encouraging trend in female performance. These results not only reflect the dedication and hard work of students but also highlight the effectiveness of educational initiatives aimed at improving academic outcomes in Uganda.
While 110,553 learners registered for the exams, only 109488 sat 2023 UACE, Uneb reports that "80,643 of the 2023 candidates meet the minimumn requirement of 2 principal level passes for admission to university, up from a figure of 67, 815 in 2022 examinations.
