President William Ruto encourages Grade 6 and Grade 9 learners as assessments begin, while urging KCSE candidates to finish strongly.
President William Ruto has urged learners starting the 2026 national assessments to remain calm and trust their preparation. Grade 6 and Grade 9 learners began their assessments across Kenya on Monday, October 26.
In a social media message on Monday, the President encouraged candidates to approach the tests with confidence. He also addressed Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) candidates, who are in the final stretch of their examinations.
Ruto told learners that their hard work had prepared them for the task ahead. He urged them to stay focused and give their best throughout the assessment period.
2026 national assessments begin across Kenya
Grade 6 learners are taking the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA). Meanwhile, Grade 9 learners are sitting the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA).
Both assessments mark an important stage in the Competency-Based Curriculum as learners move through the education system.
Figures provided for the 2026 assessment period put total registrations for national assessments and examinations at 3,634,846 learners. That total covers the year’s assessments and examinations, rather than KPSEA and KJSEA alone.
Meanwhile, KCSE candidates continue their examination programme. Ruto encouraged them to maintain their confidence and complete the remaining stretch to the best of their ability.
Ruto thanks teachers, parents and guardians
The President also recognised teachers, parents and guardians for helping candidates reach this stage of their education. He thanked them for their support throughout the learners’ preparation.
Alongside that appreciation, Ruto assured candidates of the country’s support and expressed confidence in their future contribution to Kenya. He ended his message with prayers for the learners and the country.
