The 2025 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) written exams officially commenced this morning, Monday, November 3, with thousands of candidates across the country sitting for their English and Chemistry papers.
According to the timetable released by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC), the day began with English Paper 101/1 (Functional Skills) from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
The 2025 KCSE exams are administered in regular, Large Print, Braille, and Hearing-Impaired versions to cater for learners with special needs.
While the regular and Large Print papers lasted two hours, the Braille and Hearing-Impaired versions ran for two and a half hours a measure KNEC says ensures fairness and inclusivity in assessment.
After a short midday break, candidates will sit for Chemistry Paper 233/1 in the afternoon session, scheduled from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Both regular and Large Print candidates will take the same duration.
KNEC has directed centre managers to strictly adhere to the scheduled times for collecting and returning examination materials as part of enhanced security measures.
The national exam, which will run for several weeks, marks a major milestone for nearly one million candidates sitting for this year’s assessment.
In a new arrangement, primary school teachers have been contracted as invigilators, while supervisors are drawn from secondary schools to ensure smooth administration of the exams.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba oversaw the opening of the KNEC secure container at the Matuga Deputy County Commissioner’s Office in Kwale County, marking the synchronized start of the examinations across all sub-counties.
In Kakamega County, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga joined examination officials and teachers at Kakamega School to monitor the distribution of KCSE papers.
The DPP conveyed his best wishes to all candidates, urging them to stay calm, focused, and confident throughout the examination period.
He also encouraged them to read each question carefully and answer with honesty, reminding students that genuine success is built on preparation and integrity.