At least six candidates sitting the ongoing Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations in Bungoma South Sub-County are facing pregnancy-related challenges, raising concerns over the health and welfare of expectant and teenage mothers during the national examination period.
A spot check by Education News established that the six cases involve candidates from different schools, with some experiencing childbirth-related complications while others are approaching delivery.
In the first case, a candidate reportedly gave birth during the examination period. She is said to be experiencing mental health challenges after childbirth, complicating her participation in the examinations. The situation has reportedly posed challenges for Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) officials overseeing the administration of her papers.
In a separate case, a candidate who is due to deliver has reportedly been admitted to hospital for the third consecutive day. Medical personnel are closely monitoring her condition as she awaits delivery.
Four other candidates from one school in the sub-county are reportedly expectant and could go into labour at any time. This puts additional pressure on examination administrators and school authorities to ensure their safety and continued participation in the examinations.
The cases highlight the challenges faced by pregnant schoolgirls during national examinations and the need for maternal healthcare, psychosocial support and appropriate examination arrangements.
They also raise questions about the preparedness of schools and examination authorities to respond to emergencies involving expectant candidates while safeguarding their health, dignity and right to education. Education stakeholders have consistently emphasised that pregnancy should not automatically deny girls the opportunity to complete their education.
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