Historic Moment as KCPE Exams Begin

Kisii,

Monday, October 30 2023

KNA by Misheba Alfred

Today marked a historic moment in the education system in Kenya as the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) and Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) examinations commenced.

The exams, which started this morning, signify the final phase of the 8-4-4 system of education for KCPE candidates, before Kenya transitions to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

Addressing center managers gathered at the Gucha examination container this morning, Gucha Sub County Director of Education David Akhalea impressed upon them to be diligent in the exercise and wished all the candidate’s success.

The exam containers were opened at the break of dawn, 6 a.m. in Gucha Sub County, Kisii, as candidates prepared to sit for their first papers in this significant transition. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement, as students across the Sub-County gathered at their respective examination centres.

Candidates across the country are sitting for Mathematics and English papers. These examinations have always been considered critical in Kenya's education system, as they serve as a gateway to secondary education and, eventually, higher education institutions.

For many, it's not just the beginning of the KCPE and KPSEA exams, but also the dawn of a new era in their education path. The 8-4-4 system, which has been in place since 1985, is now being phased out to make way for the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). This shift is part of a broader effort to align the Kenyan education system with the changing needs of the 21st century and to equip students with skills that will better prepare them for the job market.

The new CBC system places more emphasis on continuous assessment and competency development rather than the traditional end-of-year examinations. As such, this year's KCPE exams hold particular significance, as they signify the closing chapter of the old system.

Candidates, parents, teachers and education stakeholders are closely watching this transition. Many hope that the CBC will better address the diverse learning needs of students and provide a more holistic approach to education.

As the nation collectively holds its breath to see how these changes will impact the future of education, today's examination is a reminder of the years of preparation and hard work that students have invested in their studies. Their dedication is a testament to their commitment to their education and future prospects.

The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has put stringent measures in place to ensure the integrity and security of the exams, with the aim of preventing any form of malpractice.

Courtesy; KNA