Police in Kasese are investigating the suspected suicide of an 18-year-old Senior Four candidate, just days before the start of the Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations.
The deceased, identified as Emma Maate, was a resident of Mirami village, Karambi Parish in Karambi Sub-county.
He was a student at Karambi Senior Secondary School
Rwenzori East Region Police spokesperson Nelson Tumushiime confirmed the tragic incident, noting that authorities are still investigating the circumstances surrounding Maate’s death.
"We are currently investigating the suspected suicide, but the exact cause remains unclear. The incident is particularly devastating considering the student's age and the timing, just days before his final exams," Tumushiime said.
According to Karambi vice chairperson Hawa Biira, Maate attended a briefing on candidates on Friday.
She said the deceased had been in good health and had even shared breakfast with his family on the morning of the incident.
"This boy had his briefing on Friday while in good health, but it’s unfortunate that he is now dead. What's even more heartbreaking is that Emma had breakfast with his family before the tragic event," Biira said.
This is not the first time Kasese has faced such tragedies. In 2015, a 19-year-old Senior Four student from Mutanywana Secondary School in Kyalhumba Sub-county also committed suicide before morning lessons.
With exam stress and anxiety becoming increasingly prevalent, communities and schools are being urged to strengthen mental health support for students.
The pressure to perform can be overwhelming, and providing accessible mental health resources could be crucial in preventing future tragedies.