Ministry assures credible, smooth process as KCSE exams begin

Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Julius Ogamba led the national launch of the exams in Matuga Constituency, Kwale County, where he oversaw the opening of the first KCSE container.

The exam marks the start of a crucial academic milestone for 996,078 candidates.

He assured a smooth running of the exercise, adding that the ministry has strengthened security and ensured efficient distribution of exam materials to all centres nationwide.

Meanwhile, Basic Education Principal Secretary (PS) Julius Bitok, also oversaw the start of the exams at Westlands Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) in Nairobi, where he assured the ministry’s commitment to delivering a credible, seamless and transparent examination process across the country.

“We are doing everything possible to ensure that we deliver a credible exam,” said Bitok. “We are pulling every resource to ensure that invigilation, adjudication, credibility and the integrity of the examination process are protected.”

The PS emphasised that the government has adequately deployed teachers and personnel to ensure proper supervision and fairness during the KCSE exams.

He further explained that most of the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) exams will be marked electronically, with marking expected to take about 40 days, allowing time for transition planning to senior school.

“We are starting the marking immediately, as soon as we finish the KJSEA today, the marking begins tomorrow,” Bitok said.

On school fees, the PS assured parents that there will be no significant increase in costs for senior schools, noting that only minor adjustments may occur based on the new academic system.

“We are not expecting any significant difference in fees. There could be marginal differences depending on the three pathways, STEM, Social Sciences, and Arts and Sports, but overall, the difference will be minimal,” he said.

The PS further addressed the challenges posed by the ongoing heavy rains and flooding in some regions, confirming the ministry’s arrangements to ensure all candidates sit for their exams without distraction.

“We have made arrangements to deliver exams to areas severely affected by floods, with some being airlifted by choppers,” he said.

He further expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of 14 students in a mudslide incident in Elgeyo Marakwet County, adding that he would personally visit to oversee the delivery of exams.

The Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) and KJSEA results will be released in December 2025, while the KCSE will be released in January 2026.

KJSEA concludes today, while KCSE is scheduled to conclude on November 21.