- Kenya is set to make history after KCSE candidature reportedly exceeded one million candidates for the first time since the examination was introduced in 1989.
- Preliminary figures indicate that about 1.04 million learners have registered for the 2026 national examination.
- Education stakeholders say the growth reflects improved transition rates and expanding access to secondary education.
Kenya is set to make history after the number of candidates registered for the 2026 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination reportedly surpassed the one million mark for the first time since the examination was introduced in 1989.
Preliminary figures indicate that approximately 1.04 million candidates have registered for the national examination, representing a significant increase from the 993,226 candidates who sat the 2025 KCSE examination.
The 2025 candidature had itself been the largest in KCSE history, surpassing the 962,512 candidates who sat the examination in 2024.
The milestone reflects the continued growth in secondary school enrolment and improved transition rates from primary to secondary education across the country.
Education stakeholders have attributed the rise in candidature to government efforts aimed at expanding access to education and reducing school dropout rates.
The 2026 examination also carries special significance as Kenya continues implementing the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system.
The KCSE examination is gradually being phased out as the country transitions from the 8-4-4 education system to the new curriculum framework.
Education officials have previously indicated that only a few KCSE cohorts remain before the full transition is completed.
Logistical challenges expected
The record candidature is expected to present logistical challenges for examination administrators, including the deployment of invigilators, supervisors and security personnel, as well as the printing, distribution and management of examination materials across the country.
Education experts say the increase demonstrates growing confidence in the country’s education system and highlights the importance of investing in school infrastructure, teachers and learning resources to accommodate the rising number of learners.
The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) is expected to release official registration statistics and examination schedules ahead of the administration of the 2026 national examinations.
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If confirmed, the one million-candidate milestone will represent a significant achievement in Kenya’s efforts to expand access to secondary education and improve learner retention across the country.
By Our Reporter
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