Ministry of Education Directs Schools to End Commercial Exams with Immediate Effect

The Ministry of Education has reinforced a ban on commercial exams in all learning institutions, warning school heads against subjecting learners to unauthorized tests that impose extra costs on parents.

In a directive dated June 30, 2026, the ministry instructed all Sub-County Directors of Education to enforce strict compliance across pre-primary, primary, and junior secondary schools.

The ministry maintained that the ban remains active and warned that it will take action against institutions that continue to ignore the directive.

“This is to remind all Heads of Institutions (HOIs) that prohibited commercial exams through REF.MOE.HQS/3/6/116(53) still stands,” the directive stated.

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Commercial Exams Drive Illegal Levies in Schools

Education officials raised concerns as some schools continue to procure external examinations despite clear instructions.

They noted that such exams directly translate into illegal levies imposed on parents, increasing the cost of education and placing pressure on learners.

The ministry urged school administrators to align their assessment methods with government policy under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which emphasizes continuous and learner-centered evaluation.

Schools Shift to Classroom-Based Assessment

The ministry explained that Classroom-Based Assessment allows teachers to track learner progress effectively while maintaining a smooth flow of teaching, unlike external exams that disrupt learning schedules.

“School Heads are expected to embrace the Classroom Based Assessment (CBA) for continuous, diagnostic and formative assessment process directly carried out by teachers on daily instruction,” the notice read.

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Schools Ordered to Comply Immediately

Authorities directed Heads of Institutions to implement the directive without delay and ensure all staff members understand and follow the guidelines.

“In view of this, Heads of Institutions (HOIs) are advised to instil this directive to the latter in their institutions,” the notice added.

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The Ministry of Educationorders schools to stop commercial exams, warning of action against defaulters and urging shift to classroom-based assessment. PHOTO/ File