In a monumental announcement, the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) revealed the outstanding results of the 2023 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) exams. With an impressive 99.1% of candidates qualifying for the UACE award, it’s evident that strides have been made in academic excellence. These results not only highlight individual achievements but also underscore the pivotal role of organizations like the Women Leadership Development (WLEDE) program in fostering success.

Mr. Dan Odongo, the Executive Director of UNEB, noted the significant increase in entries for the 2023 exams, reflecting a positive trend towards educational advancement. Among the noteworthy statistics, it’s revealed that female candidates, though fewer in number, performed proportionally better than their male counterparts. This trend has persisted over the last three years, showcasing the immense potential of girls when provided with equal opportunities and support.

Moreover, subjects such as Maths, CRE, History, and General Paper recorded commendable performances, with improvements seen even in traditionally challenging subjects like Biology. The increase in mean scores across various subjects demonstrates a growing quality of candidates’ work, indicating a shift towards more robust academic preparation.

However, challenges remain, particularly in encouraging more female candidates to pursue STEM subjects. Despite their demonstrated ability to excel in these fields, there continues to be a disparity in the number of girls opting for Mathematics and Science combinations. Professor Celestino Obua, the UNEB Chairperson, rightly questions this paradox and calls for concerted efforts to address the underlying factors inhibiting girls’ participation in STEM.

The surge in UACE exam entries, coupled with the remarkable performance of candidates, signals a promising trajectory for education in Uganda. As we celebrate these achievements, it’s imperative to recognize the invaluable contribution of programs like WLEDE in empowering girls and fostering an environment of inclusivity and equal opportunity.

According to UNEB, although female candidates were fewer in number than the male candidates, proportionally, they performed better than their male counterparts in the 2023 exams.

Looking ahead, it’s crucial to continue investing in initiatives that promote gender equality in education and address systemic barriers hindering girls’ advancement. By providing mentorship, resources, and support networks, we can ensure that every girl has the opportunity to fulfill her potential and contribute meaningfully to society.