Ruto Encourages Learners as 2.58 Million Grade 6 and 9 Candidates Begin National Assessments

NAIROBI, Kenya — More than 2.58 million Grade 6 and Grade 9 learners began their national assessments on Monday, with President William Ruto urging them to stay calm, trust their preparation and do their best.

In a message shared on social media on October 26, Ruto also encouraged candidates preparing for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations, thanking teachers, parents and guardians for helping learners reach this stage.

“To our Grade 6 and Grade 9 learners starting your national assessments today, and to our KCSE candidates in the final stretch: This is your moment,” the President said.

He urged candidates not to let anxiety undermine their confidence, telling them that their preparation had equipped them for the task ahead.

“You have prepared, you have worked hard, and you are ready. Go in calm, trust your preparation and give your best,” he added.

The message comes as schools, families and examination officials manage one of the country’s largest annual education exercises, involving learners at different stages of the system.

More than 3.6 million candidates registered

Figures from the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) show that 3,634,846 candidates are registered for the 2026 national assessments and examinations across five categories.

Of these, 1,380,463 learners are sitting the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA), while 1,206,028 are taking the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA). Another 1,048,355 candidates are registered for KCSE. KPSEA is administered to Grade 6 learners, while KJSEA assesses Grade 9 learners as they prepare to progress to senior school under the competency-based education system.

The two assessments began on Monday, October 26. KPSEA is scheduled to end on Wednesday, October 28, while KJSEA will run until Friday, October 30.

The KCSE examination period is following a separate timetable. Oral, practical and other selected papers began earlier in October, while the main written examinations are scheduled for November 2 to November 20.

Ruto thanks parents and teachers

Beyond encouraging candidates, Ruto recognised the contribution of those supporting them through school.

“To our teachers, parents and guardians: Thank you for bringing them this far,” he said.

His message acknowledged the role families and educators play in preparing learners for important academic milestones. For many households, the assessment period also brings practical responsibilities, including ensuring children reach school on time, get adequate rest and have the support they need.

The President urged candidates to remember that their efforts matter to the country’s future.

“To every candidate: Kenya believes in you, Kenya is proud of you, and Kenya cannot wait to see what you will build,” he said, closing his message with prayers for the learners and the country.

A key stage in competency-based education

The assessments come as Kenya continues implementing its competency-based education framework, which places emphasis on the knowledge, skills and abilities learners develop as they progress through school.

For Grade 6 learners, KPSEA marks an important stage in their primary education. Grade 9 learners are being assessed as they approach the transition to senior school.

The number of candidates involved also makes the exercise a significant logistical undertaking. Examination materials must be distributed securely, centres staffed and assessment procedures followed across the country.

KNEC has cautioned candidates against examination malpractice, warning that cheating can lead to serious consequences, including the cancellation of results.

As the assessments continue, Ruto’s message offers encouragement, but the immediate responsibility remains shared among learners, schools, families and officials: candidates must follow the rules, while those administering the exercise must protect its fairness and credibility.

About the Author

Maureen Onyango is a journalist passionate about storytelling, life coaching and spiritual lessons. She studied at the Kenya Institute of Management and enjoys telling stories that inform, inspire and empower communities.