In a landmark move to overhaul Kenya’s education system, the Government has proposed dissolving the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) and replacing it with the Kenya National Educational Assessments Council (KNEAC).
The KNEAC Bill, 2025, approved by Cabinet on Tuesday, introduces stringent measures to combat academic malpractice, marking what the Ministry of Education describes as a “zero-tolerance era” for school administrators and candidates involved in cheating or exam-related fraud.
Aligning with Competency-Based Learning
The new council aims to align national assessments with the Competence-Based Education (CBE), replacing the traditional single final exam system with continuous assessments that measure each learner’s abilities more accurately.
During a briefing, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said:
“This Bill is the final nail in the coffin for examination cartels. We are replacing a rigid, exam-centric model with a credible competency-based framework that ensures every child’s ability is measured fairly and accurately.”
Under the proposed law, school heads found guilty of document forgery could face up to 10 years in prison or fines of Sh10 million, while leaks of assessment materials on social media carry five-year jail terms.
Concerns from Teachers’ Unions
The move has drawn mixed reactions. Collins Oyuu, Secretary General of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), expressed concern over the severity of the penalties:
“Integrity is non-negotiable, but we must ensure that our educators are not criminalized for administrative bottlenecks beyond their control. A Sh10 million fine is a death sentence for a teacher.”
Public reaction
Members of the public have expressed both support and apprehension. Mary Wanjiku, a parent and local trader, said:
“For years, we have seen rich kids buy grades while our hardworking children suffer. If these tough laws finally bring equality to our schools, then the government has my full support.”
Transition plan
If Parliament fast-tracks the Bill, KNEC will have 60 days to wind up operations and transfer all assets, liabilities, and records to KNEAC. Current KNEC staff are expected to transition into the new body, subject to fresh vetting.
