Lwengo P7 Candidate Loses Sight During Mathematics Examination

What the report says

A Primary Seven candidate in Lwengo District, Phiona Kisaakye of Kisana Bataka Primary School, reportedly lost her sight shortly after starting her Mathematics paper during the Primary Leaving Examinations. According to Nile Post, she developed a severe headache, began tearing up and then could no longer see what was written on her paper. Teachers and other candidates were left shocked as she struggled to continue.

The report says Kisaakye later regained some sight after stepping outside the examination room, but she still could not read the paper or the blackboard. Her teacher, Beka Malo, said she had experienced a similar eye problem earlier in the school year and had previously received medical attention before returning to class. The recurrence during the national exams has raised concern at the school and in her family.

At the family home in Birunuma Village, Kyazanga Sub-county, her mother, Annet Nakalunga, said they had taken her to several health facilities whenever the condition appeared, though her vision often returned before they arrived. She expressed worry about her daughter’s future and suggested someone may be harming her, without providing evidence. Her father, Patrick Amwebuza, appealed for help from well-wishers.

Kisaakye was unable to complete the Mathematics paper and also missed the later Social Studies and Religious Education paper. The case highlights how a medical issue can disrupt a candidate’s performance during high-stakes examinations and has drawn attention to the family’s need for support.