Technical Diploma candidates ask KNEC for more exam cycles before series is phased out

A group of students pursuing technical diplomas under the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) examination system have appealed to the council to extend the programme so that candidates with outstanding papers can complete their studies.

The students, some of whom have spent three years on their courses, fear their academic plans could be frustrated by the planned phase-out of the KNEC Series examinations.

In a letter dated November 5, 2026, a Diploma in Electrical and Electronics Engineering student from Kericho County asked KNEC to consider offering additional examination opportunities for candidates left with referrals in one or two subjects.

The student said the decision to end the examination series could leave many candidates unable to graduate despite having completed most of their coursework and practical training.

The student said they had completed the three-year diploma programme but were unable to finish after obtaining referrals in the final two examination papers. This, the student said, had put years of academic investment, financial sacrifices and family expectations at risk.

"All we are asking for is a second chance. A chance to finish what we started, make our parents proud and build our lives," the student said.

The candidate said the challenge was not limited to one individual, claiming that several students across the country were in a similar position after failing to clear a few outstanding papers.

They urged KNEC to introduce a transition arrangement that would allow affected candidates to register and sit the remaining examinations before the series is completely discontinued.

Among the proposals is an extension of the KNEC Series for at least one or two more examination cycles to accommodate candidates with referrals. The student also asked the council to allow candidates who have completed all other course requirements to resit their outstanding papers and qualify for their diplomas.

The appeal comes amid concerns over the impact of examination transition arrangements on students in technical and vocational courses, particularly those close to completing their qualifications.

The affected candidates say denying them a chance to clear their remaining papers could undermine years of hard work and the financial commitments made by their families. They are calling on KNEC to consider their circumstances and provide a fair opportunity to complete their qualifications.