By James Alomu

Halcyon High School has expressed unwavering confidence in the upcoming Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations as 211 of its candidates prepare to sit for the highly anticipated exams across the Teso sub-region. The school’s leadership and staff are fully committed to ensuring that the students perform to the best of their abilities, with a strong focus on academic excellence, discipline, and spiritual guidance.

During a briefing held for the UACE candidates ahead of the examination period, the school's Director of Studies, Osako Samuel, delivered an encouraging message to the students. He commended their dedication and hard work throughout the academic year, assuring them that their efforts would not go unnoticed. “God, who sees your hard work, will never leave you alone,” Samuel said, offering both spiritual and moral support. He further reminded the candidates to trust in their intelligence and to approach the exams with confidence, while emphasizing the biblical principle that “God helps those who help themselves.” Samuel urged students to dedicate themselves to God as they entered the examination hall, fostering a sense of spiritual peace and focus.

The school’s Chief Invigilator, Ronald Siota, also addressed the candidates with a message of reassurance. “We are here to assess your process, not to stress you. This examination will not kill you. Be confident, and do not panic,” Siota stated, encouraging the students to remain calm and collected during the exams. His words were designed to reduce anxiety and help students approach the exams with a clear, confident mindset.

In his remarks, the Headteacher of Halcyon High School, Paul Mark Onyait, highlighted the importance of discipline and time management throughout the examination process. He made it clear that invigilators must maintain strict adherence to time and ensure that students are given a fair and supportive environment in which to perform their best. Onyait also encouraged students to remain focused and disciplined, emphasizing that success in the UACE exams would require both hard work and strong character.

Onyait further revealed that Halcyon High School had set up a rewarding incentive system for students who excel in the UACE exams, with significant rewards for those who score between 18 and 20 points. “We believe in your potential to achieve greatness, and those who put in the effort will be duly recognized,” Onyait added, underscoring the school’s commitment to motivating and rewarding top performers.

The school's focus on both academic rigor and emotional well-being was echoed by the candidates themselves. Students like Belibelo David, Akirior Irene, and Rhoda expressed their confidence in the upcoming exams, crediting their teachers for imparting valuable knowledge and guidance throughout their studies. “We are confident of excelling because our teachers have done a lot to prepare us, equipping us with both the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed,” Rhoda remarked.

With 211 candidates poised to take the UACE exams, Halcyon High School has fostered an environment of trust, discipline, and dedication, ensuring that its students are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. The school is confident that its strong academic foundation, combined with its emphasis on confidence-building and spiritual growth, will lead to outstanding results across the Teso sub-region.