Luzira Prison Inmates jubilate
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I The release of the 2025 Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) results has shone a spotlight on the remarkable performance of candidates from Luzira Maximum Prison, underscoring the growing reach of inclusive education in the country.
A total of 432,163 candidates from 3,975 centres registered for the exams, marking a 20.2% increase from 2024. Of these, 227,871 (52.7%) were female and 204,292 (47.3%) male.
According to the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB), a total of 64 candidates from Luzira and Mbarara prisons sat for the examinations, with those from Luzira posting encouraging results despite the challenges of studying in confinement. Education officials said the performance reflects the dedication of both learners and instructors, as well as sustained efforts to provide learning materials and structured academic support within correctional facilities.
At Mbarara Main Prison Inmates’ Secondary School, all 12 registered candidates who sat the 2025 UCE examinations passed in Division One.
UNEB also reported that the 2025 UCE cohort included 708 Special Needs Education (SNE) candidates nationwide, who benefited from accommodations such as Braille examination papers, enlarged print, extra time, and sign language interpreters. Absenteeism among SNE candidates stood at just 0.6 percent, highlighting the effectiveness of these support measures.
While the overall UCE results point to broad improvements, UNEB cautioned that challenges remain, particularly in translating theoretical knowledge into practical problem-solving and creative thinking — key competencies under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). The board urged teachers to place greater emphasis on analytical, practical and real-life application skills.
For inmates at Luzira Maximum Prison, the 2025 UCE results represent more than academic achievement; they offer hope, rehabilitation, and a pathway to reintegration. Education officials say expanding access to quality learning in prisons is vital to transforming lives and strengthening Uganda’s broader education and justice systems.
About the Author
