In the recently released Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) results for the year 2023, a staggering 494,317 candidates have scored a mean grade of D+ and below, constituting 54.72% of the total candidates who sat for the exams. The results, which were released by the Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, highlight both improvements and challenges in the performance of secondary school students.
Out of the total candidates, 125,006 scored a mean grade of D+, while 155,276 managed to achieve a grade of D plain. Additionally, a total of 165,861 candidates were placed in the D- category, bringing the overall number of candidates in the D grade category to 446,143. In the E grade category, 48,174 candidates, representing 5.33%, received the lowest possible grade.
Comparing these figures to the 2022 results, there has been an increase in the number of candidates scoring Ds and Es, with a total of 489,081 candidates falling into these categories in the previous year. This raises concerns about the overall academic performance and preparedness of the candidates.
The 2023 KCSE exams, which took place from October 23 to November, saw a total of 903,260 candidates participating. Despite efforts by the Ministry to usea a more flexible system in computing the final overall results, Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu expressed disappointment at the fact that a large number of candidates still scored a mean grade of E.
Machogu announced that 14 subjects recorded a drop in performance, including English, Kenyan Sign Language, Physics, Computer Studies, History & Government, Geography, IRE, Agriculture, Home Science, Woodwork, Metalwork, Power Mechanics, Drawing and Design, and Art and Design.
In terms of gender-based performance, female candidates outperformed their male counterparts in five subjects: English, Kiswahili, CRE, Home Scaience, and Art & Design. However, male candidates recorded better mean scores in ten subjects, including Mathematics Alt. A & B, Biology, Chemistry, General Science, History & Government, Geography, Agriculture, Computer Studies, and Business Studies.
Expressing his concern over the prevalence of low grades, Machogu directed the Directorate of Quality Assurance to collaborate with field officers and teachers to investigate the cases of candidates scoring E grades in each county. He emphasized the urgency of the matter, instructing the officers to submit a comprehensive report within one month for further action.
These results shed light on the need for continuous efforts to improve the education system, address challenges faced by students, and implement effective strategies to enhance overall academic performance. As stakeholders reflect on the outcomes of the 2023 KCSE exams, it is evident that a comprehensive approach is required to uplift the standard of education and provide a brighter future for all students.