More than 2.5 million learners across Kenya commenced the 2026 Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) and Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) examinations today, Monday, October 26, marking another significant milestone in the country's Competency-Based Education (CBE) system.

According to the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC), 1,380,463 Grade 6 learners are sitting KPSEA, while 1,206,028 Grade 9 candidates are undertaking KJSEA.

The assessments began at 8:30 a.m. with KPSEA candidates tackling Mathematics and English, while KJSEA learners taking English Language, Composition and Literary Analysis.

KPSEA examinations will conclude on Wednesday, October 28, while KJSEA assessments will continue until Friday, October 30.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba assured Kenyans of adequate preparations, highlighting enhanced security, coordinated examination administration and contingency measures to address potential disruptions caused by heavy rains and flooding.

"This is among the biggest lot of candidates sitting for national exams. It calls for strict logistical preparedness to ensure smooth flow and grant a better environment to sit for the exams," he said.

KNEC has deployed nearly 189,000 examination personnel nationwide to ensure smooth administration, transparency and integrity throughout the exercise.

Parents, teachers and education stakeholders have been encouraged to support candidates throughout the examination period, ensuring a conducive environment for learners to demonstrate their knowledge and competencies.

The assessments represent an important educational transition, particularly for Grade 9 learners preparing to advance to senior school.