The Principal Secretary for the State Department for Basic Education Dr Belio Kipsang has assured candidates across the country of security as they sit for KCSE.
KCSE common papers begin today, the PS was accompanied by Teachers Service Commission (TSC) CEO Dr Nancy Macharia, to witness the distribution of the examinations in Mombasa.
Dr Kipsang said that Regional Commissioners made adequate security arrangements and the exams kicked off fairly well across the country.
“Even in some of the difficult regions that we have always had challenges like the North Rift it has been quiet which is very good for our children.
“We would like to thank our colleagues in the Ministry of Interior for stabilizing this region and making it easier for us to deliver examinations this year,” stated the PS.
He noted that they are determined to have credible exams through a well-coordinated multi-agency approach.
“We are going to continue using the multi-agency team because each member has their strength. We have DCI for investigations, Police to provide necessary security, our teachers to make sure professional practice is maintained and our Officers in the field to support the teachers,” said the PS.
Teachers have been sensitized not to drop their guard to ensure seamless examinations. Meanwhile, Kipsang said that necessary arrangements have been made for students who sat for the ‘fake’ KPSEA in Uasin Gishu County not to be disadvantaged.
“I want to assure you that action has been taken, the Director and Owner of the school have been taken to court,” he said.
“We have already taken action on our Officers overseeing that area so that we all ensure we do the right thing. It was an unfortunate situation but we have dealt with it. The law has taken its course,” he added.
Examinations are underway in areas that were declared disturbed in Tana River County following a spate of inter-communal clashes.
The media was urged to relay positive messages for communities to realize the need to be peaceful for the sake of their children.
“Children can only give us their full potential when we give them a conducive environment to do that. We urge ourselves as adults to avoid situations that may negatively affect the delivery of examination and an opportunity for our children to give us their full potential,” stated the PS.
All teachers involved in the administration of national examinations have been vetted.
“But in the unlikely event if something happens and it touches on our teachers of course the criminal aspect will take its place,” said TSC CEO Dr Nancy Macharia.
In January TSC will employ 20,000 teachers, and the interns have been converted to Permanent and Pensionable.
In preparation for grades nine and ten, teachers will be retooled during the December holiday. “We have been given Sh1 billion to prepare teachers who will teach grade ten learners,” said Dr. Macharia.
By Sadik Hassan
