Kenya nears KCSE phase-out under the 8-4-4 system as the country accelerates its shift to competency-based assessment in 2027.
Speaking on Friday during the release of the 2025 KCSE results at AIC Chebisaas High School in Eldoret, Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba said examinations have long guided learning and national development, but the future now lies in competency-based assessment.
He noted that as the KCSE examination draws to a close with the phasing out of the 8-4-4 system, its historic role in shaping generations of learners remains undeniable. However, he emphasised that education must evolve to respond to a changing world.“The transition to competency-based assessment marks a decisive step forward,” the CS said, describing the shift as one that moves education away from broad memorisation towards the demonstration of skills, values and knowledge needed to thrive in the 21st Century.The 2025 KCSE results represent the third-to-last cohort under the current system, even as the first cohort of learners under Competency-Based Education prepares to join senior school.Ogamba described the moment as both an ending and a beginning, affirming a commitment to assessments that not only measure achievement, but also nurture the competencies required for the future.He expressed gratitude to education stakeholders who, year after year, have supported KCSE candidates and ensured the smooth administration of national examinations. He said their dedication has safeguarded the credibility of the examination system and upheld high national standards.The CS acknowledged the coordinated efforts of the Ministries of Education, Interior and National Administration, Information, Communication and the Digital Economy, as well as the Teachers Service Commission, during the 2025 examination cycle.He also commended centre managers, supervisors and invigilators for their integrity and diligence.A total of 993,226 candidates sat the 2025 KCSE examinations, an increase of 30,714 candidates, or 3.19 percent, compared to 2024.Of these, 492,012 were male and 501,214 female, meaning female candidates accounted for 50.46 percent of the total candidature. This marked the second consecutive year in which female candidates outnumbered males nationally.However, the CS noted regional variations. Ten counties, including Garissa, Mandera, Wajir and Turkana, recorded significantly higher male participation, while 14 counties, such as Bomet, Elgeyo Marakwet and Kisumu, registered higher female participation. A further 23 counties recorded near gender parity.Most candidates fell within the appropriate age bracket of 17 to 19 years, accounting for over 72 percent of the total candidature. The number of candidates aged 16 and below also rose compared to the previous year.In terms of performance, 17 subjects recorded significant improvement, while 11 subjects showed a decline, a pattern similar to previous years.Female candidates outperformed males in subjects including English, Kiswahili, Kenyan Sign Language, CRE and Arts and Design, while male candidates performed better in Mathematics, Sciences, Geography, History and Business Studies.Ogamba said the government has continued to invest heavily in education reforms, including the employment of 100,000 teachers since 2023, with 24,000 hired this year, and the promotion of over 25,000 teachers to support competency-based learning.Infrastructure expansion has also accelerated, with 23,000 classrooms built in the 2024–2025 financial year and 1,600 laboratories under construction in senior schools.He said legal and policy reforms are underway, with a sessional paper and 11 education bills set to be presented to Parliament.The government has also released Sh44.2 billion in capitation before school opening, the first time this has happened.As candidates prepare to transition to tertiary education, Ogamba said the government is implementing a student-centred funding model and has rationalised university fees by between 15 percent and 40 percent, calling on eligible candidates to apply for placement once the process opens.He concluded by thanking President William Ruto for supporting education reforms aimed at equipping learners with skills for life in a changing world.
