Pressure Mounts as Exams Season Closes in

Achol Tinah

The curtains have officially drawn open on the exam season at Nkumba University, with students gearing up for a rigorous testing period.

Released on 1st April 2025, the exam timetable triggered a significant shift in the academic calendar, sparking a collective sense of urgency and determination among students.

As the clock ticks down to the first paper, students are adopting a strategic approach to their studies. “It’s not panic, it’s pressure,” said Nassali Janie, a second-year student of International Relations and Diplomacy. “Like a mental switch has flipped, and you suddenly realize: every day counts now.” Her coursemate, Najjuma Peace, echoed this sentiment, describing the timetable as a moment of clarity. “We knew it was coming, but once you see your paper dates lined up, that’s when it becomes real,” she said. “You can feel the countdown begin.”

With a newfound focus, students are creating detailed study schedules, breaking down complex topics into manageable bits, and setting realistic goals. Many are practicing past papers to familiarize themselves with the exam format and identify areas for improvement. Group study sessions have also become a common sight, with students collaborating to share notes, discuss challenging topics, and stay motivated.

“Before the timetable, I was reading in general,” said Akot Benjamin, a student pursuing a business degree. “But now, it’s all about targeting. You look at the sequence of your papers and adjust your whole plan. You start making decisions where to focus more, what to revise first.”

The library has transformed into a bee hive with students flocling in to have solitude book moments, engaging in discussions, and coordinating revision sessions. “My friends and I have been meeting at campus nonstop to discuss and catch up with our reading material,” said Najjuma. “We’re all under pressure, but no one is gatekeeping notes or study tips. There’s this quiet kind of teamwork happening, even among people who don’t normally talk.”

As the exam season approaches, the pressure is mounting but so is the determination. With their strategic approach, mutual support, and newfound focus, Nkumba University students are poised to tackle the challenge head-on and achieve their academic goals. The sense of camaraderie and shared purpose is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the student body.

Circular from the Office of the Academic Registrar.