Kalangala RDC bans political campaign in school playgrounds

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KALANGALA - In a move aimed at safeguarding the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations, Kalangala District Resident District Commissioner Fred Badda has prohibited all political campaign activities from taking place on school premises during the exam period. 

The directive comes as 220 candidates from Bishop Dunstan Nsubuga Memorial SSS, Serwanga Lwanga, Bukasa, and Nekemiah SEED SS sit for their national examinations.

Addressing journalists on Monday, October 13, 2025, Badda emphasised that academic concentration must take precedence over political activities: "Candidates need maximum concentration while writing their papers; however, due to the political season, several politicians book school playgrounds for their rallies, which might disturb the peace of students."

The RDC's directive includes strict enforcement measures to ensure exam integrity. 

"We will also confiscate loudspeakers, which transmit or play loud music near schools," Badda said. "Rallies in these areas will only be allowed on weekends since by that time, students are always relaxing."

Cathy Kabashoke, the district UNEB supervisor, said examinations commenced smoothly across all centres. 

"They have started with Geography and all candidates are in good condition," she said. "We hope that there won't be any form of interruption since security agencies are helping us in these schools."

Educational preparation for this year's exams has been comprehensive, according to Muhammad Muleme, a teacher at one of the district's secondary schools. He said: For the past four years, we have exposed these students to numerous papers, academic trips, and tests so that they become accustomed to exam conditions and gain confidence while sitting for UNEB.

Despite these positive preparations, some headteachers have voiced concerns about potential performance impacts stemming from this year's frequent teacher strikes. They worry these disruptions may undermine students' academic readiness despite the current protective measures during the examination period.