Over 1.3 Million Students Embark on KPSEA in Kenya
The landscape of educational assessments in Kenya is undergoing a transformative shift as over 1.3 million Grade 6 learners embark on the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA). Amidst this substantial undertaking, an important change is making waves: the reduction of police presence within examination environments. This adjustment marks a different approach from previous national exams where heightened security was a characteristic feature. The aim here is to create a serene atmosphere conducive to learning and performance, allowing students to approach their assessments with a calm state of mind. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba articulated this change, emphasizing that while security personnel will ensure the safe delivery of examination materials, they will not set foot into the classrooms, thus maintaining the sanctity and peace of the examination environment.
The Structure and Significance of KPSEA
The KPSEA is designed as a two-part evaluation—formative and summative. The formative component, which accounts for 60% of the total score, has already been completed and assessed by teachers at individual schools. The results from this phase have been submitted to the Kenya National Examinations Council (Knec). Now, learners are progressing to the summative assessment that holds the remaining 40% of their total marks. Unlike traditional exams that determine the next educational placement for a student, KPSEA is instrumental in understanding and monitoring an individual student’s educational journey under the framework of the Competency-Based Curriculum, a transformative leap from the previous 8-4-4 educational system. This examination heralds the conclusion of the primary school level and prepares students for their subsequent phase in Grade 7, known as junior secondary school.
Security and Logistics: A New Approach
A departure from past practices, the current KPSEA administration sees a significant reduction in law enforcement presence within examination centers. This has raised both reassurance and curiosity across regions. In Siaya Sub-County, Deputy County Commissioner Robert Ngetich has confirmed that police efforts will focus on logistical support, escorting examination materials while abstaining from physically entering the test centers. This strategic move is aimed at bolstering trust in the domestic management of the assessments by educators and school officials. The shift is consistent across varied counties, including Homa Bay, where County Commissioner Moses Lilan assured the dispatch and security of exam papers across the county's extensive network of centers.
Regional Coordination and Assurance
The undertaking of KPSEA is characterized by meticulous regional coordination and careful logistical planning. In Nyamira, County Commissioner Erastus Mbui has played an active role in the overseeing of examination material distribution, ensuring readiness for the assessment of 17,545 learners. Similarly, in Kisii County, 39,474 candidates are participating, with preparations and monitoring efforts going smoothly across its 968 centers. The Rift Valley region, under Regional Commissioner Hassan Abdi, has focused on securing examination centers, particularly in areas susceptible to insecurity, emphasizing regional collaboration and safeguarding measures.
Ensuring Integrity and Safety Amid Examinations
The overarching concern for educational authorities remains the twin pillars of integrity and safety during these assessments. In Baringo, County Commissioner Stephen Kutwa emphasized the importance of reinforced security as 17,905 learners participate in their assessments. Meanwhile, in Turkana Central, Deputy County Commissioner Thomas Siele has been hands-on, overseeing the commencement of the exams from designated secure containers. Critical to this entire process is a staunch warning against any forms of malpractice by examination officials, highlighting the Education Ministry’s firm stance on maintaining transparency and fairness throughout the examination period.
Conclusion
In summary, the KPSEA represents more than just an academic assessment; it signifies a paradigm shift in Kenyan education. The emphasis on reduced police presence may redefine how security and serenity coexist in educational settings. As Kenya navigates its education reforms, the successful implementation of KPSEA could serve as a beacon of progress and innovation, guiding its learners toward a new era of knowledge and understanding within the evolving Competency-Based Curriculum framework.