CS Ogamba Confirms C+ Cut-Off for KCSE 2024 University Entrants.
The 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) results have set a new benchmark. A record-breaking 246,391 students achieved the minimum university entry grade of C+ and above. This represents a remarkable 22.5% increase from the 201,133 qualifiers in 2023, signaling improved academic performance across the country. Additionally, 49.41% of students earned a C- or higher, making them eligible for diploma programs in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.
The number of candidates sitting the KCSE also rose by 7.19%, from 903,260 in 2023 to 962,512 in 2024. This upward trend reflects the growing importance of education in shaping Kenya’s future workforce.
Funding Woes for Higher Education
The surge in university-eligible candidates has added immense strain on Kenya’s higher education funding. A controversial funding model introduced in previous years required students to separately apply for scholarships, tuition loans, and upkeep support. However, this system collapsed after a court ruling deemed it ineffective, leaving public universities financially constrained.
Government funding for universities has declined to 48%, far below the promised 80% coverage for academic programs. As a result, public institutions are grappling with unpaid salaries, debts exceeding KSh 70 billion, and dwindling resources. These financial struggles highlight the urgent need for a sustainable funding solution.
Read also: Old Giants Reclaim Academic Glory in KCSE Results
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has yet to confirm whether the government will sponsor all university qualifiers in 2024. Historically, the government has supported all eligible students since reforms in 2016. However, past budget limitations forced the introduction of cutoff points, pushing some students toward self-sponsored programs or alternative education paths.
The rising number of qualifiers adds pressure to create a viable funding model, particularly as the government appeals the High Court’s ruling against its previous approach.
Improved Results Driven by New Grading System
The improved KCSE performance in 2024 is credited to a revamped grading system aligned with global standards. Among the 962,512 candidates, 1,693 achieved an A grade, a notable increase from 1,216 in 2023. Additionally, 62.76% earned a D+ or higher, qualifying for diploma training programs.
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To address funding gaps, the government allocated KSh 3.98 billion for scholarships in February 2024 and an additional KSh 3.9 billion for first-year tuition fees in October 2023. However, these measures are insufficient to meet the growing demands of higher education. Public universities require more investment to sustain infrastructure, faculty salaries, and essential resources.
| Funding Component | Amount (KSh) |
| Scholarships (Feb 2024) | 3.98 billion |
| Tuition Fees (Oct 2023) | 3.9 billion |
| Education Loans Board | 5.1 billion |
| Universities Fund | 2.8 billion |
Strikes and Delayed Funding
Financial constraints have led to widespread challenges in Kenya’s education sector. In 2023, lecturers staged strikes over delayed collective bargaining agreement payments. The government introduced phased payments but failed to meet its obligations in full.
Additionally, funding delays have disrupted the academic calendar for first- and second-year university students. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi assured that funds were being prioritized to address these issues. He pledged support for loan repayments, capitation for schools, salaries, and county government allocations.
Read also: 2024 KCSE Shockers: How Little-Known Schools are Redefining Academic Excellence
The rising number of TVET program qualifiers has further stretched resources. In 2024, 605,774 students qualified for diploma training, up from 526,222 in 2023. This surge underscores the need for increased investment in both TVET institutions and basic education.
Government Commitment Amid Growing Pressure
Despite mounting challenges, the government remains committed to addressing education funding issues. Mr. Mbadi promised to disburse funds to schools by January 31, 2024, while acknowledging the financial burden many institutions face.
“Our priority this year is to clear loans, release capitation, pay salaries, and allocate resources to county governments,” he affirmed.
The success of Kenya’s education system hinges on the government’s ability to balance increasing demand with limited resources. A sustainable funding model will be essential to support higher and basic education, ensuring quality learning opportunities for all.
CS Ogamba Confirms C+ Cut-Off for KCSE 2024 University Entrants.
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