Government Bans Publication of UNEB Results in Media Over Privacy Concerns

Kampala, Uganda | The Ministry of Education and Sports has imposed a strict ban on the public display of individual candidates’ national examination results across all media platforms, citing privacy and data protection concerns.

In a circular issued to all heads of institutions and proprietors of private schools, the ministry warned that publishing individual scores, result slips, and candidate photographs on billboards, in newspapers, or on social media violates the Data Protection and Privacy Act, 2019.

The circular dated 7th May, 2025, signed by Dr. Kedrace R. Turyagyenda, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education and Sports, referenced continued concerns raised during the release of the 2024 PLE, UCE, and UACE results.

She noted that the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports had earlier cautioned school leaders against such practices.

“…This directive is aligned with the Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding the privacy, dignity, and well-being of all learners…,” the letter reads. “…Publicizing results can expose students and families to stigma, harassment, or unnecessary pressure…”

The ministry has instructed schools to:

1. Avoid using candidates’ results for marketing or advertising purposes.
2. Communicate results privately to parents or guardians through sealed letters or secure digital channels.
3. Refrain from displaying results on notice boards, social media platforms, or any other public forum.
4. Sensitize staff, parents, and school governing bodies on the importance of confidentiality and the legal implications of unauthorized disclosure.

Where necessary, schools may share a general performance summary without revealing names or photos of individual learners.

The ministry warned that any head of school found breaching this guidance will face stern disciplinary action as part of their obligation to safeguard student welfare.

The directive is intended to reaffirm the government’s stance on learner privacy and guide institutions on the proper and lawful handling of national examination results.