The 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination results were officially unveiled on Thursday by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, marking a significant moment for over 965,512 candidates who sat for the exams. Conducted across 10,755 centers nationwide, this year’s results highlight notable trends, achievements, and challenges in Kenya’s education landscape. Here’s an in-depth guide to understanding the results, accessing them, and navigating the next steps.
How to Access Your KCSE Results Online
Candidates can easily check their results via the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) portal. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official KNEC results portal: https://results.knec.ac.ke.
- Enter your index number and one of your names as registered during the KCSE exams.
- Submit the details to view your results.
For candidates experiencing technical difficulties, the Ministry of Education has provided toll-free helplines: 0800724900 or 0800721410.
Key Highlights from the 2024 KCSE Results
1. Female Candidates Outnumber Males for the First Time
In a historic shift, female candidates surpassed their male counterparts, with 482,202 girls sitting for the exams compared to 480,310 boys. This milestone reflects ongoing efforts to promote gender parity in education.
2. Performance Breakdown
- Grade A: 1,693 candidates achieved the highest grade.
- C+ and Above (University Entry Grade): 246,391 candidates (25.53%) met the minimum requirement for university admission.
- C- and Above: 46,889 candidates (49.41%) qualified for diploma and certificate courses.
- D+ and Above: 605,774 candidates (62.76%) attained grades eligible for vocational training and other opportunities.
3. Exam Irregularities
- Results for 840 candidates were canceled due to confirmed cases of exam malpractice.
- Results for 2,829 candidates have been withheld pending further investigations, which are expected to be concluded within 30 days.
Challenges in Accessing Results
Shortly after the release, many candidates and parents reported difficulties accessing the KNEC portal due to high traffic. The Ministry of Education has urged candidates to remain patient and keep trying, assuring the public that the system will stabilize.
Next Steps for Candidates
For Candidates with C+ and Above
Students who achieved the minimum university entry grade can now begin preparing for the next phase of their academic journey. The Ministry of Education will soon announce timelines and procedures for university applications, including the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) process.
For Candidates with C- and Above
Those who scored C- and above can explore diploma and certificate courses offered by technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions. These pathways provide valuable skills and opportunities for career advancement.
For Candidates with D+ and Above
Students in this category are encouraged to consider vocational training programs, apprenticeships, or other skill-based opportunities to enhance their employability.
Addressing Exam Malpractice
The cancellation of results for 840 candidates and the withholding of results for 2,829 others underscore the government’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the national examination system. The Ministry of Education has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward malpractice and pledged to conclude investigations within the stipulated 30-day period.
Looking Ahead
The release of the 2024 KCSE results marks the beginning of a new chapter for candidates. As the Ministry of Education finalizes placement details, students are encouraged to explore their options, seek guidance from career counselors, and stay informed about upcoming opportunities.
For further assistance, candidates can contact KNEC or their respective schools. Congratulations to all candidates for their hard work and dedication, and best wishes for the next phase of their academic and professional journeys!
