The Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) faces significant challenges in administering national exams due to recent budget cuts. These cuts, directed by the National Treasury, come just three months before the exams, causing concern among educational stakeholders.
The Treasury instructed various government bodies to reassess their financial estimates for FY 2024/25, leading to reductions in 24 areas, including a complete elimination of funds for exam and invigilation fees.
The rejected Finance Bill 2024 initially allocated KNEC Sh5 billion for exam waiver fees. Despite presenting its budget needs, KNEC has been operating with a significant deficit. An expert highlighted that KNEC consistently receives Sh5 billion yearly, despite increasing candidate numbers.
The government covers exam fees for all candidates in public and private schools since 2016, except for those re-sitting, non-Kenyans, and private candidates in sub-county centers. Exam fees range from Sh1,800 for KPSEA to Sh5,800 for nine subjects.