UNEB Reports Growth in Special Needs Learners and Improved PLE Performance for 2024

The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has announced a significant increase in the number of learners with special needs who registered for the 2024 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE). According to Mr. Dan N. Odongo, UNEB’s Executive Director, 3,328 learners with special needs registered for the exams, up from 2,652 in 2023. These learners included those who are blind, deaf, physically disabled, or dyslexic, reflecting the board’s ongoing commitment to inclusive education.

Mr. Odongo highlighted notable improvements in candidates’ performance in subjects such as Social Studies and Religious Education, Integrated Science, and Mathematics. However, he also acknowledged a decline in English performance compared to 2023, signaling areas that will require further attention and support moving forward.

The 2024 PLE results continued the trend of more girls completing the primary education cycle than boys. Out of the 797,459 candidates, 52.5% were girls (418,750) compared to 47.5% boys (378,709). Overall, the performance showed positive growth, with 91.8% of candidates passing the exams, up from 88.0% in 2023. The number of students achieving Division 2 and above also increased, indicating an overall improvement in educational outcomes.

The results revealed that 84,301 candidates (10.7%) passed in Division 1, 397,589 in Division 2, 165,284 in Division 3, and 75,556 in Division 4. A total of 64,251 candidates failed the exams and are not eligible for admission to Senior One.

The 2024 performance shows an improvement in the proportion of candidates passing in Division 2 and above compared to the previous year. However, there was a slight decrease in the number of candidates achieving Division 1.

The results showed that male candidates performed better than females, with a lower failure rate overall. However, in terms of numbers, more girls appeared in Division 2 and the lower divisions, due to the higher number of female candidates registered for the exams.

At Luzira Upper Prison School, 51 candidates sat for the exams. Of these, four passed in Division 1, 36 in Division 2, 13 in Division 3, and 6 in Division 4. None were ungraded, although 12 candidates did not sit for the exam.

At Mbarara Main Prison Inmates Primary School, 37 candidates sat for the exams, with four achieving Division 1, 20 in Division 2, 10 in Division 3, and 3 in Division 4. None were ungraded.

These results highlight significant progress in Uganda's education system, particularly in promoting inclusivity and improving overall performance. However, the decline in English performance emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to ensure consistent improvement across all subjects. UNEB remains committed to enhancing equity and quality in education as it continues to support diverse learners and address key challenges.