Proposal Tabled to Have KCSE and Other National Exams Printed in Kenya

The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Education, chaired by Tinderet MP, Julius Melly, met officials from the Government Printer, led by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Abdi Hassan.

Speaking before the Committee, Hassan maintained that the institution has the capacity to securely print national examinations.

However, the Committee members sought assurances on the agency’s printing capacity, security systems and ability to distribute examination papers nationwide within the required timelines before such a proposal can be considered.

The Committee underscored the need for the Government Printer to demonstrate its capacity to securely print and distribute national examinations in a timely manner to safeguard the credibility of the examination process.

Committee Directives on School Fire Incidents

The Committee called for enhanced school safety measures following recent school fire incidents and cases of student unrest reported across the country.

Principal Secretary for Basic Education John Lekakeny Ololtuaa presented a report showing that 359 incidents were recorded during three reporting periods between 27 April and 31 July 2026.

The cases comprised actual school fires, attempted or threatened arson, student unrest and precautionary school closures.

The PS report also outlined the status of investigations, mitigation measures and school safety interventions undertaken by the Ministry to prevent a recurrence.

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Responding to Members’ concerns, Ololtuaa said overcrowding was not the sole cause of school fires, noting that while the Government’s 100 per cent transition policy had increased school enrolment, several other factors had contributed to the incidents.

He assured the Committee that the Ministry was implementing measures to strengthen school safety and address the root causes of unrest.

Fee Structure and Withholding Students’ Certificates

Members also questioned the Ministry on delayed capitation, adherence to the approved school fee structure and the continued withholding of students’ certificates by some schools.

Ololtuaa said the Ministry had engaged the National Treasury to ensure the timely release of capitation funds and was monitoring compliance with government fee guidelines.

He termed the withholding of certificates illegal and pledged action against schools found violating the law. The PS also confirmed that funds had been set aside to pay KNEC examination invigilators.

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Additionally, the MPs urged the Ministry of Education to strengthen school safety interventions, enforce compliance with government policies on school fees and certificate issuance, and ensure the timely release of capitation funds to schools.

The Legislators reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the education sector through effective oversight, noting that the Committee will continue engaging relevant stakeholders to address emerging challenges and ensure the delivery of quality, safe and accessible education for all learners.

“As a Committee, our priority is to ensure that our learners study in safe environments, public resources are utilised effectively, and the integrity of national examinations is safeguarded. We will continue to hold the relevant institutions accountable in delivering on these responsibilities,” Melly said.

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