Over 2.5mn learners take national assessments as KJSEA concludes

Nairobi, Kenya - Over 2.5 million learners took part in this week’s national assessments conducted by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC), according to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba. As the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) comes to a close on Friday, Ogamba reported that the assessments had largely gone smoothly across the nation, despite encountering some operational issues due to adverse weather, administrative errors, and the need for special accommodations for certain learners.

Ogamba emphasized that KNEC ensured every learner who arrived at their assigned assessment centers had the chance to write their scheduled papers. The CS expressed gratitude to education officials, security forces, and other collaborators for effectively managing the challenges, ensuring no learner faced unnecessary disadvantages.

The completion of KJSEA is a crucial step for Grade 9 students preparing to move into Senior School in January 2027, as it, along with school-based assessments, will determine their subsequent educational paths. Ogamba assured parents and students that the placement process would be fair, transparent, and just, considering performance, interests, pathway choices, and other relevant factors.

The Ministry of Education will convey the necessary timelines and procedures via official channels, Ogamba stated. With the focus now shifting to the nationwide written Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams beginning on November 2 and concluding on November 20, Ogamba highlighted the need for education officials and security agencies to prepare examination centers, deploy personnel, and securely transport examination materials.

He also stressed the importance of giving special consideration to candidates with disabilities, those requiring medical attention, and learners in areas impacted by adverse weather or other difficulties. The CS reiterated the government's commitment to conducting national assessments and examinations fairly, securely, and with integrity while protecting the well-being of all learners.