MPs Raise Concern Over Zero Budget Allocation for KCSE, JSS Exams

Members of Parliament have sounded the alarm over the Education Ministry’s failure to allocate any funds for national exams in the upcoming 2025–2026 financial year. This includes the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), Junior Secondary School (JSS), and the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA).

MPs Question Ministry Over Missing Exam Funds

Speaking during a session on Tuesday, May 13, National Assembly Education Committee Chairperson Julius Melly led a grilling of Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, who struggled to explain why exams were left out of the budget entirely.

“Exams happen every year without fail. They are a key part of our education calendar. How can the budget ignore this completely?” Melly questioned.

Lawmakers Express Outrage Over Poor Planning

Narok Woman Representative Rebecca Tonkei slammed the Ministry for poor planning, asking why the government hadn’t anticipated this recurring expense. Nyamira Woman Representative Jerusha Momanyi also demanded answers, saying: “Are parents being asked to start paying for national exams? Or is Treasury sending a message to scrap them?”

PS Bitok Admits Budget Gaps, Promises Consultation

In his response, PS Bitok acknowledged the glaring funding gap and promised to engage both the National Treasury and the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) to resolve the issue swiftly. “We are aware and working to fix it,” he assured the committee.

Read also:Grade 9 Learners to Choose Senior School Pathways in Second Term

MPs Demand Revised Budget and Clarity from KNEC

The Education Committee was not satisfied with Bitok’s response and revealed that the overall education budget had been slashed by Ksh 62 billion. They have since summoned KNEC officials to explain how the exams will be conducted without any financial backing.

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Photo: National Assembly Education Committee in session discussing the 2025-26 education budget