What KCSE Grading System Review means For Students
More than five million students in Kenya are set to benefit from a revamped grading system in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations. This new system, introduced by Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, reduces the number of compulsory subjects from five to two.
Candidates will now have their mean grades calculated based on two compulsory subjects (mathematics and one language, which can be English, Kiswahili, or Kenya Sign Language) and their five best-performed subjects.
Previously, the grading system considered five compulsory subjects (English, Kiswahili, mathematics, and two science subjects) along with two humanities subjects, which disadvantaged students whose strengths lay outside this formula.
Machogu expects that these reforms will increase the number of students qualifying for universities, diploma programs, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), as well as certificate and artisan levels.
These changes are in line with recommendations from the Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms (PWPER). The first batch of students to benefit from these reforms is the class of 2023, who will sit their examinations from November 6 to November 24.
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The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (Kuccps) will be responsible for placing learners in higher education institutions based on their performance under this new grading system.
The new system aims to empower learners to focus on their strengths and career paths. It seeks to separate achievement from placement and aligns with global best practices. The government is also monitoring weather conditions, especially El Nino rains expected next month, to ensure the smooth delivery of examination materials.
Additionally, there are changes in the administration of examinations, including the annual rotation of staff for supervisors and invigilators. This year’s national examinations include the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) for Grade 6 learners, the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE), and the KCSE. KCPE has the highest number of registered candidates (1,415,315).
Candidates will undergo rehearsals, and the examinations will be conducted according to a new system to prevent early exposure. Security measures have been strengthened, including the use of containers for safe storage of examination materials.
These changes reflect a significant reform effort in the Kenyan education system, aimed at improving fairness and opportunities for students.
What KCSE Grading System Review means For Students
