S4 Candidates Begin Their National Examinations

On October 12, 2026, Senior Four students across Uganda are set to begin their national examinations.

At Ocer, 176 candidates are embarking on this important stage of their academic journey. The entire Ocerian community wishes them success and assures them of its prayers throughout the examination period.

Success cards were priced affordably enough to ensure that even the most cash-strapped student could pick one up for a friend.

In the lead-up to the examinations, considerable effort has been made to ensure that the candidates are adequately prepared. Beyond the expected syllabus coverage, students attended several seminars facilitated by external facilitators.

S4 candidates attend a biology seminar ahead of their national examinations

It has become a tradition at Ocer to engage facilitators with experience in examination question-setting and marking. Over the years, their expertise has proved invaluable in helping candidates gain a clearer understanding of examination requirements and approach their papers with greater confidence.

OCJC PE students report to Gulu High School grounds for their practical examination held about a week before the official start of the national examinations.

In addition to the seminars, the candidates attended a briefing session during which they met their prospective invigilators and were guided through the dos and don’ts of the examination process.

Preparation Beyond Academics

Preparation, however, extended beyond the academic sphere. Considerable attention was also given to the spiritual well-being of the candidates, with various individuals and groups offering prayers for the S4's success.

Congregants pose for a group photo after the Dedication Mass.

On Sunday, October 11, the school community gathered for a Dedication Mass during which the entire Ocerian community entrusted the 176 S4 candidates to God, asking Him to accompany them through this momentous period.

During the same Mass, the Headmaster informed the OCJC community of Fr. Kyaligonza’s appointment as the new Jesuit Provincial

The Mass was celebrated by the Headmaster, Fr. Meyo Obwanda, SJ. Drawing on the day’s Gospel reading, he challenged the candidates to consider whether they will be found wearing the requisite wedding garment or, like the fellow in the Gospel who shows up without the requisite garment, they will be left speechless and confused when their results come out, and people ask them: my friend, why did you show up for the national examinations without the requisite preparations?

Old Ocerians present a success card and convey their best wishes to the S4 candidates.

His message underscored the importance of combining prayer and trust in God with the hard work and preparation necessary for success.

The Dedication Mass also featured the presentation of success cards by various groups, including continuing classes, friends, the Jesuits working at Ocer, the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), the S4 class of 2014, and others.

S6 students shine during Mass with a special song dedicated to the S4 candidates.

The candidates were further encouraged through heartfelt messages, special songs, and, most importantly, a solemn prayer for their success. In a particularly moving moment, the entire congregation was invited to pray for the candidates as they knelt in humility, entrusting their examinations and future to God.

Parents praying for the P7, S4 and S6 candidates of 2026 during their Annual General Meeting

This special prayer of dedication complemented the blessings the candidates had received from their parents the previous day.

Parents Offer Their Blessings

On Saturday, October 10, parents of OCJC students gathered at the school for Visitation Day and the PTA’s Annual General Meeting. The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss a range of issues, including the challenges facing the school, achievements recorded during the year, ways of strengthening collaboration between the school administration and the PTA, and plans for the coming year.

A parent shares his views during the meeting.

At the close of the meeting, parents were invited to pray for their children's success in the forthcoming examinations. In a solemn and touching moment, the candidates bowed their heads as their parents extended their hands over them in a gesture of blessing and prayer.

Ready for the Challenge

With preparations spanning academic, spiritual, and communal life, OCJC hopes that its S4 candidates will approach their examinations equipped not only with the requisite knowledge but also with hope, courage, and confidence.

The hall is currently a no-go zone as S4 candidates settle into their national examinations.

As the candidates begin this important chapter, the prayers and good wishes of the entire Ocerian community go with them.

May God guide them, strengthen them, and bless their efforts throughout the examination period.