Kenya’s education system has entered a historic phase as 2.3 million learners begin the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) the first national exam under the Competency-Based Education (CBE) curriculum. The assessment runs from October 27 to November 3, marking the end of junior secondary education and the transition to senior school.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said the KJSEA reflects a major shift from the traditional Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) model. “The new system represents a fundamental change, emphasizing skills, creativity, and continuous learning rather than one-off, high-stakes testing,” Ogamba noted.
Unlike previous national exams, candidates will not receive certificates. Instead, learners will be issued result slips showing their performance in each subject.
The assessment evaluates competencies across a wide range of learning areas, including English, Kiswahili, Mathematics, Integrated Science, Social Studies, Religious Education, Agriculture, Pre-Technical Studies, Creative Arts, and Physical Education. Learners with hearing impairments will also be assessed in Kenyan Sign Language.
According to the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC), the KJSEA is not about ranking or elimination, but about measuring how learners apply their knowledge. “It values skills, innovation, and real-world problem-solving,” Ogamba added.
KNEC emphasized that the Competency-Based Education system aims to eliminate one-off, high-pressure exams and promote continuous assessment. The approach seeks to develop learners who are creative, critical thinkers, and prepared for the evolving demands of the real world.
“The goal is to nurture adaptable and skilled individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society,” the Education CS said.
The KJSEA marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s education reform journey one that prioritizes learning outcomes and holistic development over memorization and competition.
