The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has directed principals of senior schools to begin implementing Competency Based Assessments (CBAs) as part of the transition to Competency Based Education (CBE) in senior secondary schools.
In a circular dated May 11, 2026, the Commission instructed school heads to comply with new Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) guidelines on registration, teacher training, school-based assessments, and reporting of learner scores.
The circular, signed by Acting Commission Secretary and CEO Ms E. J. Mitei, was addressed to all principals of senior schools across the country.
“The Commission wishes to draw your attention to the attached communication from the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC),” the circular states.
According to TSC, the rollout of CBAs will involve several key processes aimed at preparing schools for full implementation of CBE at the senior school level.
The Commission noted that the communication outlines “key requirements and timelines” relating to “registration of institutions as Senior School Assessment Centres.”
TSC further directed schools to ensure the “registration of Grade 10 learners in the KNEC CBA portal” within the timelines provided by KNEC.
The circular also emphasised the need for teacher preparedness through “teacher capacity building through the CBA self-paced training portal.”
In addition, schools have been instructed to oversee the “administration of School-Based Assessments (SBAs)” and ensure proper “uploading and reporting of assessment scores.”
TSC warned principals against failing to comply with the new requirements, saying all institutions must strictly adhere to the timelines and procedures outlined by KNEC.
“You are required to carefully study the attached KNEC guidelines and ensure strict compliance with the stipulated timelines and procedures,” the circular reads.
The Commission directed heads of institutions to ensure that “all Grade 10 learners are registered in the KNEC portal” and that teachers handling Grade 10 learners are adequately sensitised on school-based assessments and the use of the CBA portal.
TSC also instructed schools to establish the necessary structures for the successful implementation of the assessments.
“Necessary institutional arrangements are put in place for effective implementation of the assessments,” the circular states.
The Commission described the rollout as a major step in implementing the CBC reforms in secondary education.
“Please note that the roll-out of Competency Based Assessments is a critical component in the implementation of Competency Based Education (CBE) in Senior School,” the circular says.
Regional directors, county directors, and sub-county directors have also been tasked with monitoring compliance in their respective jurisdictions.
The Commission further instructed education officials to “sensitise schools and monitor compliance within their respective jurisdictions.”
TSC concluded by urging education officers and school heads to treat the matter with urgency as preparations for senior school under the CBC system gather momentum nationwide.
Background
The CBC was introduced in Kenya to replace the 8-4-4 system with a skills-based and learner-centred education model. The system emphasises practical learning, talent development, critical thinking, and continuous assessment rather than relying solely on final national examinations.
Under CBC, learners transition from junior school to senior school after Grade 9, where they specialise in pathways aligned to their interests, abilities, and career aspirations. The implementation of CBAs is intended to monitor learners’ progress continuously while helping teachers identify strengths and learning gaps early enough.
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The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) and the TSC have been working jointly to prepare schools for the transition to senior school under CBC. The government has also intensified teacher training, digital learning integration, and curriculum reforms to support the nationwide implementation of CBE.
By Joseph Mambili
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