Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ogamba has announced a significant change in university entry requirements for Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) candidates.
Starting with the 2024 cohort, students will now require a minimum grade of B- (minus) to qualify for direct entry into university programs.
This announcement marks a departure from the traditional university entry grade of C+, which has been the standard for years.
The move, according to CS Ogamba, is aimed at raising the bar for academic excellence while addressing the need for higher competency in Kenya’s education system.
Speaking during a press briefing, the CS emphasized the importance of maintaining the quality of graduates in a highly competitive job market.
“This decision will ensure that universities admit students who are well-prepared academically to meet the demands of higher education and excel in their respective fields,” CS Ogamba stated.
The decision has elicited mixed reactions from stakeholders. While some education experts and parents have applauded the move, arguing that it will motivate students to aim higher and improve overall academic performance, others have expressed concerns.
Critics believe the higher grade may exclude many deserving students from accessing university education, particularly those from marginalized areas or underprivileged backgrounds
To cushion the impact, the government is expected to expand vocational and technical training opportunities for students who score below the B- threshold.
This strategy is part of a broader plan to strengthen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions as viable alternatives to universities.
The Ministry of Education has assured the public that the transition will be seamless, and efforts will be made to support schools in preparing students for the higher expectations.
As KCSE 2024 candidates prepare for the exams, this change will undoubtedly impact how students and schools approach academic performance in the coming year.