KCPE Candidate Succumbs to Sickle cell Anaemia
Tragically, a student who was in the process of preparing for the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examinations has passed away in Busia. This young learner’s life came to an untimely end after suffering a severe illness at their residence in the Lugale division of Budalang’i.
According to a police report, the pupil had been battling sickle cell anaemia, a condition characterized by misshapen red blood cells that can cause blockages and reduced blood flow. Despite the 16-year-old’s brave efforts to participate in the exams on Tuesday, they were later hospitalized and, sadly, did not recover.
The news of this student’s demise is particularly poignant as they were on the cusp of completing their primary education, with the final KCPE exams scheduled for Wednesday. These exams marked a crucial milestone for the young candidate, representing their transition to the next phase of their educational journey.
In a broader context, the 2023 KCPE examinations commenced on Monday, involving over 1.4 million candidates registered by the Kenya National Examinations Council. These exams are significant as they mark the last batch of students to undergo the KCPE under the 8-4-4 curriculum, which had been in effect since 1985. This curriculum has faced criticism for the immense pressure it places on students to achieve high grades, and it is now being replaced by the Competency-Based Curriculum.
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Sickle cell anaemia, the condition afflicting the young student, is a genetic disorder in which red blood cells take on a sickle or crescent shape, leading to their increased rigidity and stickiness. This abnormality can result in the slowing or blocking of blood flow, causing various health complications. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for most individuals with sickle cell anaemia, but treatments are available to alleviate pain and reduce the risk of associated complications.
This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder of the challenges students face in their pursuit of education, as well as the importance of addressing health issues, such as sickle cell anaemia, that can impact their lives.
