CS Machogu Unveils New KCSE Grading Framework.
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) 2023 will use a new grading system that Ezekiel Machogu, Cabinet Secretary for Education, unveiled.
Examiners will now determine the mean grade by using only two mandatory subjects—Mathematics and one language—English, Kiswahili, or Kenyan Sign Language.
Speaking in a stakeholders engagement on the new grading system at Mtihani House, Machogu claims that there are formerly five obligatory subjects spread across three cluster groups: mathematics, English, Kiswahili, two sciences, and one humanity.
Examiners must now choose five of a candidate’s top performance in each subject, eliminating the existing grade system.
According to the education CS, the Kenya National Examinations Council would consider any additional five top-performing subjects in addition to the two required ones. The new reform initiative will boost the number of students eligible for university admission, diploma programs, and TVET training at the certificate and artisan levels.
As has been the case since the introduction of the 8-4-4 educational system, the prior approach was thought to penalize some students whose best-performing subject was not considered if not within the clusters.
Additionally, the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) is putting in place strict security measures for the national exams in 2023 to guarantee the integrity of the test process.
Read also: National Examination Plans Laid Out by CS Machogu
The majority of cheating, according to KNEC CEO David Njengere, takes place in the testing facilities. They might go unnoticed if the security guards and invigilators at the testing facility are not attentive. Therefore, it is vital to restrict the number of people who can enter the testing facility.
The action tries to reduce cheating, a recurring issue during earlier exams.
Njengere also underlined the importance of utilizing examination officials who have a high level of honesty, vigilance, and sobriety to ensure professionalism and justice.
The council has announced steps to deal with potential interruptions by weather conditions while keeping an eye on erratic weather patterns.
Njengere continued by saying that there are indicators that the country will likely see above-average precipitation during the examination period, with projections of potential El Nino downpours. The council reassures you that they have put procedures and safeguards in place and collaborated with a security organization to prepare us to handle any crisis as and when it occurs.
This year, there will be three national tests in total: the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) for Grade 6 students, the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE), and the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE).
The KCSE exams will begin on October 23 and end on November 24, with practice sessions beginning on October 19.
CS Machogu Unveils New KCSE Grading Framework.