Kenya has recorded a 97% transition rate for learners who completed Grade 6 in 2025, marking near‑universal movement into Junior Secondary School and reinforcing momentum behind the country’s 100% School Transition Policy.
Officials say the gains reflect sustained effort by government and parents to keep children in school and advance the Competency‑Based Curriculum progression framework.
A report compiled by National Government Administrative Officers alongside County Directors of Education credits coordinated action at community level for the strong performance on access, retention and progression.
Authorities reiterated that full transition remains a national priority, urging continued collaboration to prevent dropouts linked to cost barriers, delayed placement and social vulnerabilities.
Beyond junior secondary, the report shows 61% of eligible learners have already joined Senior Secondary School, with admissions ongoing across counties. To accommodate families facing challenges, reporting timelines have been extended following stakeholder concerns—an inclusive measure designed to reach learners yet to report or complete placement.
The drive for full compliance is anchored in local accountability. Teams are conducting door‑to‑door tracing and household mapping to identify learners who have not reported, while community sensitisation continues through barazas, religious institutions and other local platforms to mobilise parents and guardians.
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Financial support remains central to the effort. Bursaries and scholarships are being coordinated through county governments, the National Government Constituencies Development Fund and administrative officers to reduce exclusion driven by fees and related costs. Officials say targeted interventions are being intensified to ensure every eligible learner transitions smoothly across all pathways.
Despite the progress, the report acknowledges persistent barriers slowing Senior Secondary School transition: financial constraints, isolated cases of early pregnancies, absenteeism or learner reluctance, and placement delays among families seeking alternative schools. In response, government actors and parents are strengthening bursary mobilisation, counselling and re‑entry support, deepening community engagement through local leadership structures, and fast‑tracking placement guidance.
“This progress reflects more than compliance; it signals a growing national culture that recognises education as the most reliable path to productivity, opportunity and national transformation,” the report read.
By Masaki Enock
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