President Ruto, Machogu to oversee beginning of KCPE exams in Kikuyu

President William Ruto on Monday arrived at Kikuyu Township Primary School, Kiambu County to oversee the beginning of KCPE and KPSEA exams.

Ruto was accompanied by Education CS Ezekiel Machogu, Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah.

Earlier, President Ruto and First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto sent best wishes to the candidates.

In a joint statement, Ruto and Rachel said they had made great progress in collaboration with parents in laying a foundation to enable the candidates to proceed through school into fulfilling careers. 

"It is time for you to take part in an evaluation of the progress you have made in learning and preparing for the next stage of your education," the statement read in part.

"We take this opportunity to wish you success as you write your examinations and to ensure you that we have taken and shall continue to take every necessary measure to support you as you get ready to make your contribution to the growth of our nation."

Further, the Head of State and Mama Rachel said they are praying for the candidates, for God's blessings to be upon them throughout the examination period. 

"May you triumph and prosper in all your endeavors."

Exams for both KCPE and KPSEA are set to begin today (Monday), October 30, and end on Wednesday, November 1.

A total of  1,282,574 candidates are set to sit the KPSEA assessments. The assessment will be done to monitor learner achievement and not the placement of candidates.

Unlike in KCPE exams where candidates are rated out of 100 per cent, KPSEA only accounts for 40 per cent of the final score.

The other 60 per cent comes from classroom-based continuous assessment tests conducted in Grades 4, 5 and 6.

They are also tested in Creative And Social Sciences (C.A.S.S) which includes Arts and Crafts, Music, Social Studies, and Religious Education.