Oburu encourages KCSE, KJSEA candidates as national exams begin

On Monday, October 26, 2026, more than 2.4 million students from Kenya are set to commence their Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) and Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) examinations. The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) announced that a total of 1,298,089 Grade 6 learners will take part in the KPSEA, while 1,130,669 Grade 9 learners will participate in the KJSEA. These assessments, which will span five days, are scheduled to commence at 8:30 a.m. on Monday.

Prior to the exams, mock tests were conducted on Friday, October 23, during which learners were guided through the examination procedures and guidelines to familiarize themselves with the format and expectations. KNEC has emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity and transparency throughout the assessment period, urging teachers, examination officials, and candidates to adhere to these principles.

The assessments signal a significant transition in Kenya's education system from the 8-4-4 model to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). The CBC places greater emphasis on continuous assessment and practical competencies, with evaluations occurring at various stages of a learner's education. Last year, KNEC Chief Executive Officer David Njengere expressed confidence in the country's readiness to administer assessments under the new curriculum, noting that Grade 9 assessments now represent 60% of the overall evaluation, compared to the previous 8-4-4 system, which relied heavily on end-of-year national exams.

The commencement of the KPSEA and KJSEA on Monday marks a crucial milestone for millions of students across Kenya as they embark on the next phase of their academic journey under the evolving education system. Security officials reported that the situation was calm leading up to the examinations, ensuring a conducive environment for learners to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.