Over 100,000 Students in Kenya Appeal Senior Secondary School Placements
In Kenya, more than 100,000 Grade 10 students have objected to the automated senior secondary school placement system used under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), calling for a review of their placement results. The high volume of applications has brought renewed criticism that, although the system is technically efficient, it does not adequately reflect the real-life circumstances of students and their families.
The Ministry of Education emphasized that the automated placement system was designed in line with the principles of merit, equity, and fairness, taking into account students’ preferences, academic performance, and available school capacities. However, many parents and students argued that the outcomes overlooked key factors such as affordability, proximity to home, and practical family conditions. In addition, complaints that some students were placed in pathways that did not align with their abilities or expectations highlighted gaps in understanding the CBC school and program options.
In a statement issued to students and parents on December 23, the Ministry of Education reported that more than 100,000 requests had been received on the first day of the seven-day review window, with only about 2,000 approved so far. Ministry officials noted that the review process is ongoing and urged parents and students to remain patient.