The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has deployed 537 military personnel to provide security for the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) during the upcoming Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations, which are scheduled to begin countrywide on October 12, 2026.
The Military Police personnel underwent a three-week Examination Security Course at Buyala-Nsujjumpolwe Barracks in Mpigi District, where they were trained to uphold core values including accountability, confidentiality, teamwork, innovation and professionalism while handling examination-related matters.
The training was aimed at equipping the personnel with the skills required to provide transparent, effective and professional security services to UNEB and other stakeholders throughout the examination period.
Maj Gen William Beinomugisha, the Commandant of the military brigade, reminded the participants that UNEB faced significant challenges before the deployment of Military Police personnel in 2017, with examination malpractices undermining the Board’s vision of becoming a globally recognised centre for competitive educational assessment and certification.
He said the situation prompted the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) to entrust the Military Police with the sensitive responsibility of securing national examinations, with the aim of restoring and maintaining public confidence in the examination process.
Maj Gen Beinomugisha officiated at the send-off ceremony for the first group of personnel assigned to provide examination security and urged them to strictly adhere to the established guidelines, emphasising that the assignment was a matter of national responsibility rather than personal welfare.
He said the selection of personnel was based on their dependability, integrity, past conduct, level of commitment, discipline, rank and leadership qualities.
“As Military Police, we have to keep the image of the UPDF, to support the wise decision of the leadership from the President and Commander-in-Chief of the UPDF, and Military Police as a formation by doing good and changing the narrative to fit in the required performance,” Maj Gen Beinomugisha said.
He warned that personnel who act contrary to the established rules and guidelines would be apprehended and charged under the UPDF Act, 2005.
“Being polite and respectful in identifying key stakeholders in the task will help you keep in the right lane and ensure a good flow of examination protocols throughout the season,” he added.
Of the 537 personnel deployed, 513 are station commanders while 24 are route commanders. They will be responsible for ensuring that UCE examination materials are securely delivered to their designated stations without being tampered with.
