Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has announced that the government will appeal the High Court ruling that blocked the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) from administering mid-year KCSE exams.
The CS revealed that the ministry has instructed its legal team to initiate the appeal process against the High Court order issued in Kisii.
Ogamba also assured stakeholders that the government would address their concerns to ensure the fairness of the July Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations.
He reassured Kenyans that the government would implement measures to prevent any form of discrimination or disadvantage against candidates.
"The July KCSE series is essential for Kenyans seeking to improve their grades and secure better opportunities. As a government, we are determined to administer these mid-year exams for the benefit of students. At the moment, our lawyers are reviewing the basis of the conservatory order and will respond accordingly," Ogamba stated.
He spoke during an interview with KBC on Thursday, where he outlined the key milestones of his ministry.
Magare Gikenyi filed a petition challenging the administration of the mid-year exams, arguing that they would unfairly impact students and compromise the integrity of the examination process.
On Wednesday, Kisii High Court Lady Justice Odera Achieng issued a conservatory order against KNEC’s plan to hold the July exams, stating that the petitioner had met the necessary legal threshold.
In his petition, Gikenyi claimed that the mid-year retakes violated candidates' rights, including respect for their best interests, the right to life and development, and their right to be heard and participate in decisions affecting them.
The petitioner also alleged that there had been inadequate public participation and consultation with stakeholders before the policy was implemented.
Last week, KNEC issued a notice inviting Kenyans who wished to improve their KCSE grades to register for the July KCSE series.
KNEC clarified that the exams would target various categories of candidates, including repeaters, adult learners, and private candidates aiming to improve their grades.
Knec also announced that candidates registering for the exams would be required to pay a fee of Sh7,200.
