education 10 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uneb Boss Dan Odongo Explains Contract Extension Amidst Tenure Expiry
Uganda National Examinations Board (Uneb) Executive Director Dan Odongo has revealed that his contract was extended due to the passing of the Human Resource Director and a board assessment of institutional priorities and his performance, ensuring stability. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/why-uneb-boss-remains-in-office-after-expiry-of-tenure-5553602
Dan Odongo, the Executive Director of the Uganda National Examinations Board (Uneb), has shed light on the reasons behind the extension of his tenure, which was initially set to conclude. Odongo’s contract entered its final year, but his continued service was deemed crucial for maintaining stability and guiding the examination body through its ongoing development.
In an upcoming book titled From the Humble Beginnings: The Journey of a Teacher Who Rose to Lead a Nation’s Trust, Odongo explains that a key factor in the extension was the unfortunate passing of Uneb’s Human Resource Director. Alongside this, the Uneb board conducted an assessment of the institution’s immediate priorities and Odongo’s performance, concluding that extending his service would ensure continuity and sustained momentum.
Odongo views the extension as an opportunity to consolidate achievements and steer Uneb into its “next phase of its assessment journey.” He acknowledges that his tenure has faced significant challenges, most notably examination malpractice. He attributes this to the actions of various stakeholders, including school administrators, teachers, candidates, and even parents, some of whom have allegedly facilitated cheating.
Despite these hurdles, Odongo highlighted that Uneb is in a stronger financial position than when he took over in 2016, with its annual budget tripling. This has allowed for improvements in logistics, equipment, staff welfare, and capacity building. However, funding constraints still impact crucial activities like teacher training for the Competence-Based Curriculum and establishing disaster recovery centers.
As his extended tenure nears its end, Odongo plans to focus on rest, travel, community service, and supporting unemployed youth. He also intends to establish a foundation in his parents’ memory to aid disadvantaged children, with proceeds from his book also contributing to this cause. He aims to leverage his experience to support young people entering the workforce.