Benter Opande, the Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Women Teachers Association, has expressed her concerns regarding the mid-year supplementary KCSE exams, a move introduced by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) to offer a second chance to candidates who missed or wish to improve their scores in previous years.
The supplementary exams, set to take place in July, target repeaters—those who either missed the exam due to unforeseen circumstances or those wishing to improve their results by retaking seven or more subjects. However, this initiative has sparked intense debate among education stakeholders, with many questioning the feasibility, fairness, and preparedness for the process.
Benter argues that KNEC should have engaged more stakeholders before introducing the supplementary exam. She points out that the six-month preparation window is insufficient, particularly for repeaters who may not have had adequate time to review the subjects they are retaking. “The preparation window is too short,” Benter remarked, adding that this could hinder repeaters’ chances of success.
Moreover, Benter highlighted the cost implications of the program. With a mandatory registration fee of Sh7,200, she expressed concern that many students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds would be unable to afford the exam fees, let alone the additional costs of accommodation for the three-week exam period. She termed the registration fee “exorbitant” and warned that it could exclude thousands of students who are already struggling financially.
Another concern raised by Benter is the requirement for students to register at regional offices. She suggests that this requirement may create logistical challenges and further complicate the process for those who live in remote areas. There have been calls for the government to allow students to sit for the exams alongside their peers in regular centers, reducing the barriers faced by many potential candidates.
As criticisms continue to mount from various quarters, including education advocates, it seems likely that the supplementary KCSE exams may face legal challenges. Many are urging KNEC to reconsider the implementation of this exam, urging a more inclusive, fair, and well-prepared process.
The final verdict on the supplementary KCSE exams remains to be seen as stakeholders continue to voice their concerns, hoping for a solution that better serves the needs of all students.