The government has released a raft of controls and measures aimed at delivering successful national examinations starting in October.
Among others, the Ministry of Education has banned prayer days, school visits, and other social activities in all learning institutions this term to deliver a peaceful environment for the candidates.
Annual leave for all education officers has also been suspended during the examination period to ensure close supervision and support. The leave disruptions have been an annual practice in Kenya.
In a circular sent to all Regional, County, and Sub-County Directors of Education, the Principal Secretary for Basic Education, Julius Bitok, said the decision is aimed at reducing disruptions.
The Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination will run from October 21 to November 21 while the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA), Kenya Integrated Learning and Education Assessment (KILEA), Kenya Primary Learners Education Assessment (KPLEA), and the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) will take place between October 27 and November 5.
“To enhance focus on effective preparation for national examinations and assessments, and to minimise disruptions, the Ministry shall implement strict controls on extra-curricular and social activities during the Third Term,” reads the circular.
Among the suspended activities are prayer sessions involving parents and invited guests, Annual General Meetings (AGMs), prize-giving ceremonies, and thanksgiving events. However, Dr. Bitok clarified that routine prayers and worship led by teachers and chaplains within schools will continue.
“There shall be no prayer sessions for candidates involving parents, outsiders, or external visitors. However, regular prayer and worship activities conducted by school chaplains and teachers within the school community shall remain unaffected,” he said.
The ministry further directed that AGMs, thanksgiving, prize-giving days, and special prayers for candidates should only be held in the First or Second Term of the academic year.
