Govt Hits Schools With New Restrictions Ahead of 2026 KCSE, KPSEA Exams

The Ministry of Education has issued new directives restricting certain school activities during the Third Term as the country prepares for the 2026 national assessments and examinations.

In a circular dated September 3, the State Department for Basic Education directed schools to regulate co-curricular, social, and external-engagement activities to minimise disruptions during the examination preparation and assessment period.

The Ministry directed schools not to hold prayer sessions for candidates involving parents, outsiders, or other external visitors during the Third Term and examination period.

However, the directive does not prohibit regular prayer and worship activities within schools.

“ Prayer sessions involving parents, outsiders or other external visitors shall not be held for candidates. Regular prayer and worship activities conducted internally by school chaplains and teachers may continue. This measure is intended to minimise unnecessary interaction between candidates and external parties during the preparation and assessment period,” read part of the circular.

Education Ministry Moves to Minimise Disruptions During KCSE Exam Season

It further said Third Term constitutes a critical national assessment and examination season, making it necessary to regulate activities that could interfere with candidates’ preparation.

The Ministry said the measures would facilitate effective preparation for and administration of the national assessments and examinations while minimising disruptions.

Also Read: KNEC Slapped With 5 Demands Ahead of 2026 KCSE, KJSEA and KPSEA Exams

Additionally, the Education Ministry has cancelled annual leave for officers during the national assessment and examination period.

“Annual leave for officers during the national assessment and examination period is hereby cancelled,” read part of the circular.

This aims to ensure that education officials remain available to oversee the administration of the national assessments and examinations.

Following the directives, Regional, County and Sub-County Directors of Education have been directed to bring the contents of the circular to the attention of all schools under their jurisdiction and ensure compliance.

2026 KCSE to Begin in October

These restrictions come as schools prepare for the 2026 national examinations and assessments, with the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) having released the relevant timetables.

Also Read: KNEC Rolls Out KCSE Digital Certificates for 2025 Candidates: How to Check

The Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination will run from Monday, October 19 to Friday, November 20, 2026 while the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) written papers will be administered from October 26 to October 28.

In addition, the Kenya Intermediate Level Education Assessment (KILEA) will run from October 26 to October 30, while the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) written papers will also be administered from October 26 to October 30.

The Kenya Pre-Vocational Level Education Assessment (KPLEA) will take place from October 26 to October 29.

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A collage of Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba during the opening of the KNEC container for the KCSE examination in Ruiru Sub-County and the distribution of KCSE examination materials to designated centres. PHOTO/KNEC