Here’s a bold statement: Kenya’s national assessment exams are running smoother than ever, but here’s where it gets controversial—could this success be a model for other countries, or is it too good to be true? Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has gone on record to assure the public that the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) and Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) are proceeding without major hitches. But this is the part most people miss—while the exams are progressing well, minor challenges have still popped up, and how they’re being handled is worth a closer look.
Omollo credits the seamless coordination between government agencies for the lack of significant incidents since the exams kicked off on Monday. He stated, ‘The strong collaboration among all stakeholders has ensured that we haven’t faced any major issues worth worrying about.’ This teamwork includes close partnership between the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Education, focusing on security and logistical support. For instance, over 600 secure containers have been strategically placed across sub-counties to safeguard examination materials—a detail often overlooked but crucial for integrity.
But here’s the twist: the ongoing short rains have thrown a wrench into the works, causing minor delays in distributing exam papers to some areas. Omollo acknowledged these challenges but emphasized that rapid responses from ground teams have prevented any compromise to the exams’ integrity. ‘We’ve had isolated incidents, but our teams have worked around the clock to address them,’ he explained. One such incident in Tana River County was swiftly resolved, showcasing the system’s resilience. Contingency plans, including airlifting materials to hard-to-reach areas, are also in place—a proactive measure that’s rarely highlighted.
Another often-missed detail: a few candidates have fallen ill or been hospitalized during the exams. Yet, authorities have ensured these students can still sit their papers, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity. Omollo noted, ‘Our teams have worked tirelessly to accommodate these cases without disrupting the process.’ This level of adaptability is a testament to the system’s robustness.
The exams are being conducted under tight security and monitoring, with both ministries working in tandem. Omollo reaffirmed the Ministry of Interior’s dedication to protecting the exams’ integrity through multi-agency efforts across all sub-counties. Meanwhile, Basic Education PS Julius Bitok confirmed that minor issues like misplaced papers were quickly resolved, ensuring no learner was left behind.
But here’s a thought-provoking question: With such meticulous planning and execution, why do minor challenges still arise, and what can other nations learn from Kenya’s approach? Is this a blueprint for success, or are there hidden flaws? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
