In an unexpected move sparking widespread debate, reports indicate that the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has suspended experienced examiners for the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams without clear reasons. According to recent information obtained by K47 Digital News, many seasoned teachers who have marked the exams for years have yet to be called up, raising concerns among educators about the council’s rationale.
The situation has reportedly led KNEC to deploy new examiners in several key subjects, a development that has divided opinions in educational circles. Critics argue that dismissing experienced markers could potentially affect the quality and accuracy of the KCSE results, a concern given the exams’ significance in shaping students’ futures. Supporters, on the other hand, believe the inclusion of newcomers may bring fresh perspectives to the grading process and give other teachers a chance to contribute.
Examiners Speak Out: “We Need Freshers”
An anonymous teacher who spoke to K47 Digital News expressed frustration with KNEC’s recent approach. “Must they be the only ones? Let every trained examiner have an experience of marking. This know-it-all attitude of ‘sijui exam talks’ must end,” the teacher stated, suggesting that experienced examiners often dominate the system and prevent others from gaining experience.
Another teacher echoed similar sentiments, arguing that KNEC’s move to deploy newcomers could help decentralize knowledge and provide a broader skill base for marking exams. “There is always a reason for suspension or expulsion,” they noted, implying that the council’s decision may have valid grounds. However, KNEC has not officially clarified its rationale, leaving many in the education sector speculating about the true motives.
A bolder suggestion from a different teacher even proposed the complete removal of all current examiners to make room for fresh talent. “Ikiwezekana waondolewe wote. We need freshers,” the teacher commented, adding to the voices calling for a restructuring of the KCSE marking process.
Concerns Over Quality and Consistency
However, not all educators agree with KNEC’s shift towards new examiners. Critics worry that the lack of experience among fresh examiners could lead to inconsistencies in marking, affecting overall grading fairness. The KCSE exams are pivotal in determining students’ eligibility for university courses and job opportunities, and any discrepancies could impact the futures of thousands of candidates.
Some examiners argue that their experience in handling complex marking schemes and understanding common student challenges is vital for accurate grading. “Experience plays a crucial role in evaluating KCSE scripts, especially in technical subjects like mathematics and sciences,” shared one long-time examiner. “Newcomers may miss key details that an experienced marker would easily spot, potentially affecting a student’s final grade.”
The Debate on Examiner Selection
The controversy sheds light on the broader issue of how KNEC selects and manages examiners. According to guidelines, teachers must undergo rigorous training to qualify as examiners. However, many trained educators feel they are denied opportunities to participate in the marking process due to what some view as favoritism or biased selection practices.
The deployment of newcomers has added another layer to the debate. While supporters argue it promotes inclusivity, opponents contend that excluding experienced markers lacks transparency and could undermine the examination’s integrity.
In past years, complaints about the KCSE marking process have often surfaced, with allegations of unfair practices and dissatisfaction among teachers over limited marking slots. This year’s situation has reignited calls for a more transparent and equitable system that considers both experience and fresh perspectives.
Calls for KNEC’s Response
As the marking process for KCSE 2024 looms, many in the teaching community are awaiting a formal response from KNEC. Clarity on the council’s decision to suspend seasoned examiners could help address the mounting concerns. Additionally, a balanced approach that allows both experienced and new teachers to contribute might foster a more inclusive environment, strengthening the credibility of the KCSE grading process.
In the meantime, KNEC remains under scrutiny as educators, parents, and students alike question the fairness and effectiveness of the council’s recent decisions. With the exams playing such a crucial role in students’ lives, the call for transparency in the selection and suspension of examiners grows louder by the day.
