Education experts have called for an independent investigation into the marking of the 2025 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), following concerns from schools and parents who allege possible bias in grading.
Most complaints have come from parents whose children attend traditionally high-performing and expensive urban schools, many of whom were surprised when pupils from rural and lesser-known schools showed marked improvement.
The results have reignited debates about whether academic excellence remains perceived as the preserve of urban schools.
Primary school teacher Eric Kikomeko raised concerns about the suitability of the examination papers, particularly in Social Studies and Science.
“When we reviewed the papers after the exams, we found that the questions were extremely technical and heavily worded, demanding a level of comprehension that is quite high for learners of that age,” Kikomeko said.
He dismissed claims that rural pupils or government schools were deliberately favoured, noting that the results may appear unusual because urban schools are often assumed to have an advantage due to better resources.
Education expert Dr Mary Gorret Nakabugo called for a structured investigation to understand the reasons behind the shifts in school performance.
“There is a need for an independent study to clearly explain why some schools that had consistently performed well declined, while others registered significant improvement,” Dr Nakabugo said.
She also urged parents to reconsider how they interpret results, cautioning against equating success solely with top aggregates, a mindset that places unnecessary pressure on learners and teachers.
Professor Muwaga Mugagga, Principal of Makerere University School of Education and External Studies, agreed that a formal inquiry would help restore public confidence in the examination system.
Experts further urged the government to continue investing in public schools to bring them up to modern standards, arguing that improved facilities and learning conditions would help eliminate perceptions of bias during national examinations.