The Kenya Comprehensive School Heads Association (KECSHA) has dismissed claims of corruption in the placement of Grade 10 learners into Senior School, saying no formal complaints have been lodged by parents, guardians, or school administrators.
In a letter dated January 23 and addressed to Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, KECSHA Chairman Fuad Ali Abdalla clarified that the association “has not received any formal complaints relating to corruption or irregularities in the placement of Grade 10 learners into Senior School.” The circular was received by the Ministry on January 26.
The statement comes at a time of heightened public scrutiny over the Competency‑Based Education (CBE) transition, with parents questioning transparency, fairness, and access to preferred schools and pathways. KECSHA acknowledged that while corruption allegations were unfounded, the rollout had exposed broader challenges tied to the new system.
PS Bitok had on January 20, 2026 written to KECSHA, requesting comprehensive reports of alleged corruption in the placement of Grade 10 students in senior schools.
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According to the association, limited public understanding of placement criteria and pathways, coupled with high demand for a few preferred schools, has fueled suspicion and anxiety. KECSHA further noted that in some regions, available pathways do not align with learner interests or parental expectations, complicating the process. Weak communication channels, it added, have made it difficult for concerns to be raised and addressed promptly.
To strengthen credibility, KECSHA recommended clearer public education on placement procedures, improved communication of results and appeals, and stronger digital systems to minimize human discretion. It also urged more structured career guidance at the Junior School level to prepare learners for pathway choices.
“KECSHA remains committed to collaborating with the Ministry of Education and all relevant agencies to safeguard the credibility of the placement process and to ensure that learner transition into Senior School is fair, transparent, and learner‑centred,” the chairman said.
KECSHA reiterated its readiness to engage further with the Ministry through consultations, stakeholder forums, or direct dialogue with school heads to address emerging concerns.
By Masaki Enock
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