NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) will administer an online proficiency test in June for a select group of Grade 9 learners to assess their readiness for the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) scheduled for November.
The test is specifically designed for learners who have transitioned into the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) from foreign countries or alternative education systems.
“This test targets children who came from other countries and joined the system,” said KNEC CEO David Njengere. “Contrary to the belief that CBC is not popular, we’re seeing enrolments from countries such as the UK, Australia, Canada, and the US.”
What the Test Covers
The assessment will examine learners in four subjects: Mathematics, English, Integrated Science, and Kiswahili.
It aims to gauge their academic alignment with the CBC before they sit the national junior school assessment later in the year.
According to the official timetable, candidates must report to designated assessment centres on June 9 for orientation.
The test will be conducted online and will be timed, with no allowance for extra minutes.
Candidates will receive their results and result slips immediately after completing the test, which will be authenticated by Sub-County Directors of Education.
These documents are required for formal registration for the November KJSEA.
Strict Exam Protocols
Njengere emphasised the importance of integrity and punctuality, urging officials to brief candidates thoroughly on the exam rules and penalties for misconduct.
“Learners must be screened outside the assessment room and seated at least 15 minutes before the test begins,” the instructions read. “The first session starts at 8:30 am sharp. Only in exceptional cases will candidates arriving more than 30 minutes late be allowed in.”
Students have been advised to manage their time wisely and avoid overwriting or providing irrelevant answers.
“Much time can be wasted writing unnecessary information, for which no marks will be awarded,” the council cautioned.
KNEC has also asked learners who wish to withdraw from the test to notify the council in writing before the exam day.
