President William Ruto has reappointed Prof. Julius Nyabundi to serve a second four-year term as the non-executive chairperson of the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC). The announcement, contained in a gazette notice dated March 13, forms part of a broader reorganization of leadership across key government agencies and departments.
Nyabundi, a seasoned academic and administrator, first assumed the role in July 2022 following his appointment by former President Uhuru Kenyatta. He succeeded John Osati, who had taken over in 2019 after the late Prof. George Magoha was appointed Cabinet Secretary for Education.
The reappointment extends Nyabundi’s stewardship of the council, which is mandated to safeguard the integrity of national examinations and provide strategic leadership in Kenya’s education assessment system. As chairperson, his role is primarily policy-focused, offering oversight and advisory guidance, while day-to-day operations remain under the chief executive officer.
Nyabundi previously served as Vice Chancellor of Maseno University from 2016, and earlier as principal of Murang’a University College. His career also includes a stint as managing director of Chemelil Sugar Company, reflecting his versatility in both academic and corporate leadership.
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Nyabundi holds a PhD from the University of California and has published widely in refereed journals, presenting papers at both local and international conferences. His contributions to education were recognized in 2005 when he was awarded the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) by the late President Mwai Kibaki.
During his first term at KNEC, Nyabundi oversaw significant milestones, including the preparation and administration of the inaugural Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) for Grade Six learners under the Competency-Based Curriculum. The exercise marked a critical step in Kenya’s education reforms, positioning KNEC at the center of the transition to new learning pathways.
He will continue to work closely with KNEC Chief Executive Officer Dr. David Njengere, whose five-year tenure runs until June 30, 2026. Njengere, who took office in July 2021, has been instrumental in implementing examination reforms and strengthening the council’s operational framework.
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Nyabundi’s reappointment is seen as a move to ensure continuity and stability in the management of national examinations at a time when Kenya’s education system is undergoing significant transformation. With the Competency-Based Curriculum reshaping assessment structures, KNEC’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in guiding policy, maintaining credibility, and ensuring fairness in the evaluation of learners.
By Masaki Enock
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