The recently announced 2023 Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) results reveal notable changes. A three-year low is indicated by a ten percent decrease in the number of Standard Eight candidates scoring 400 marks or higher, totaling only 8,525 students. In contrast, and deviating significantly from the norm, those achieving below 100 marks surged to an unprecedented five-year peak, with a staggering total of 2,060 individuals falling into this category.
Candidates traditionally surpassing the 400 marks threshold have higher probabilities of securing placements in national schools. However, we anticipate a decline in this cohort. This prediction, founded on the notion that intense competition for coveted spots will subside, is set to alleviate the admissions pressures on these institutions.
Out of a possible 500 marks, an impressive score of 428 emerged for Michael Warutere at Riara Springs Academy. However, this accomplishment, commendable though it may be, falls just short of last year’s top tally, suggesting a nuanced shift in overall performance and a testament to his consistent excellence.
Upon examining subject-wise performance, we observed an improvement in English Language and Kenya Sign Language compared to the previous year. However, the majority of subjects, including English Composition, Kiswahili Language, Mathematics, and Science, experienced a year-on-year decline. The downturn also impacted Kiswahili Insha, Social Studies, and Religious Education.
Male candidates demonstrate superior performance over their female counterparts in Mathematics and Science within the domain of gender-based performance. However, females excel in English, Kiswahili, and Kenya Sign Language.
Kenya’s heightened emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) courses coincides with a recent dip in performance. The nation actively aspires to amplify its cadre of professionals in these sectors for propelling innovation and industrialization.
Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu assures that all candidates, regardless of their scores, will secure placement in secondary schools to align with the government’s 100 percent transition policy. Further bolstering this pledge, plans are already underway for a special exam slated for January 2024. Its purpose is to evaluate and include approximately 9,354 students who did not participate in the 2023 examination. The goal remains steadfast – to leave no candidate behind during this crucial transition towards implementing the new Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) system.
The shifting dynamics in the landscape of education are unveiling themselves through the 2023 KCPE results, signaling a myriad of challenges and opportunities for Kenya’s educational sector.