The Ministry of Education has released the 2025 Kenya Junior Secondary Education Assessment (KJSEA) results, marking a major turning point for the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system. The examinations, taken between October 27 and November 3 by the pioneer CBE cohort, are the final hurdle before learners transition into senior secondary school in January 2026.
Unlike previous years, this year’s results were issued under a new point-based grading model, which the government says is designed to reflect learners’ mastery of key competencies rather than raw scores. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, speaking during the release event alongside Basic Education PS Julius Bitok, said the updated framework would offer a clearer picture of students’ strengths as they choose pathways in senior secondary.
CS Ogamba revealed that several subjects demonstrated significant improvement, with a higher proportion of learners meeting national expectations. Hindu Religious Education, Integrated Science, Social Studies, Creative Arts and Sports, Kiswahili, Christian Religious Education, and Agriculture emerged among the strongest areas, highlighting a balanced performance across both academic and creative disciplines.
According to the ministry, the new grading structure aims to reduce exam pressure and promote practical learning—key pillars of the CBE philosophy. Officials noted that early data suggests learners performed better in subjects that emphasise applied knowledge and hands-on activities, a trend they expect will guide future curriculum adjustments.
As schools prepare to transition the CBE pioneers into senior secondary, the Ministry has urged parents and teachers to familiarize themselves with the new point system to better support learners. More detailed placement guidelines are expected in the coming weeks as government agencies finalize admissions to the various pathways under the new curriculum.