The Ministry of Education has moved to calm growing concern among teachers and other professionals who handled the 2025 national examinations, assuring them that their pending payments will be cleared soon after weeks of delay.
Thousands of contracted officers were engaged to manage last year’s three national assessments; the Kenya National Examinations Council administered Kenya Primary School Education Assessment, Kenya Junior School Education Assessment and Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education.
The officers completed their duties and results were released on schedule, but they are yet to receive their dues.
In a statement issued by Kenya National Examinations Council on Saturday, February 20, the Ministry admitted that payments had delayed, pointing to budget challenges.
"The Ministry of Education wishes to acknowledge the legitimate concerns raised regarding the delayed payment of contracted professionals engaged in the administration and marking of 2025 National Examinations and Assessments," it said.
The Ministry recognised the central role played by supervisors, invigilators, security personnel, examiners and other contracted staff in protecting the credibility and smooth running of the national examinations.
"The Ministry recognizes the critical role played by the Supervisors & Invigilators, Security Personnel, Examiners and other Contracted Professionals in safeguarding the integrity, credibility, and timely delivery of National Assessments. Their contribution remains central to the successful execution of the national examinations calendar," the Ministry of Education added.
It said it is working closely with The National Treasury to ensure the required funds are released so that the affected officers can be paid.
The Ministry further expressed regret over the situation, saying it understands the frustration among those who offered their services during the examinations period.
"We wish to assure all affected professionals that payment remains a priority. The Ministry, in collaboration with the National Treasury is actively working to resolve the matter and expedite the release of the requisite funds within the shortest time possible. The Ministry appreciates the patience, professionalism, and continued cooperation of all contracted personnel during this period. Moving forward, we commit to safeguard timely payment to our Contracted Professionals," it said.
The delayed payments have sparked discontent among teachers, with some warning that they may decline to take up examination duties this year if the issue is not resolved. A number of teachers have already indicated they will not apply for the roles, citing concerns over delayed pay.
The examinations body relies on teachers employed by the Teachers Service Commission to oversee and manage the national tests across the country. They serve as invigilators in examination centres, while others are deployed as examiners to mark scripts and compile results to uphold the integrity of the process.
