KCSE Chronicles: 5 Unforgettable Events from the 2024 Exams.
The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) reported that over 960,000 candidates sat for their exams in 10,755 centres.
While the exam period concluded on November 22, it was characterized by both remarkable achievements and somber tragedies. Below is a recap of six significant events that stood out during the national exams.
1. Tragic Loss of Candidates
The examination period witnessed heartbreaking incidents where three students lost their lives:
| Student | School | County | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| A female candidate | Gakui Secondary School | Murang’a | Collapsed in school and later passed away while receiving treatment. |
| Calistus Wamboye Oteu | Eburere Secondary School | Kakamega | Died unexpectedly in the classroom despite showing no prior health issues. |
| Snider Undisa | Friends School Womulalu | Vihiga | Succumbed to epilepsy before sitting for her final exam. |
2. Young Mothers Sitting for Exams
Several young candidates courageously juggled motherhood and examinations.
- In Meru county, two students gave birth on the first exam day but continued with their tests.
- A 17-year-old in Kiambu county delivered on the third day and returned to complete her exam after being discharged.
- In Kericho county, an 18-year-old underwent an emergency caesarean section but later managed to sit for her tests.
These incidents highlighted the resilience of young mothers who were determined to succeed academically despite their challenges.
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3. MCA David Letting’s KCSE Journey
At 64 years old, Kipkenyo Ward MCA David Letting (popularly known as Kokwas) set an inspiring example by returning to school.
- His journey began in 2020 when he scored 150 marks in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE).
- Despite having last attended school in 1970, he sat for his KCSE exams with determination. Letting expressed confidence that he would achieve at least a D-.
This remarkable story underscored the importance of lifelong learning and perseverance.
4. Arrests Linked to the KCSE Exams
Key Arrests During the Exam Period
| Name | Offense | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Stephen Biko Olan’go | Assault and possession of illegal substances | Detained after threatening a classmate with a knife at Menara Academy. |
| Collins Kipchumba Kemboi | Examination malpractice | Arrested for operating exam leakage platforms on Telegram and WhatsApp using a fake female alias. |
Police raids during the examination period led to significant arrests that exposed malpractice and highlighted the authorities’ vigilance in maintaining exam integrity.
5. KCSE Candidate Beaten by Schoolmates
A troubling case of bullying emerged in Nakuru, where a student at Anestar Premier High School faced threats and physical abuse from classmates.
- His mother revealed that the harassment began in August and persisted, even after the offenders were suspended.
- The student’s desk was marked with an ‘X,’ and his exam index number was removed, leaving him to complete his tests under fear.
This incident emphasized the need for schools to address bullying to safeguard students’ well-being.
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Conclusion
The 2024 KCSE examination period brought out stories of resilience, loss, and critical challenges. From tragic deaths to inspiring examples of determination and accountability in curbing malpractice, this period will remain memorable for its defining moments.
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