The transition to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) has reached a critical juncture with the opening of the 2026 registration for the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) and the upcoming Grade 10 School-Based Assessments. Education CS Julius Ogamba announced that for the first time, registration for Grade 10 learners will contribute to the final Kenya Certificate of Basic Education results. This marks a significant departure from the old 8-4-4 system, placing a heavier emphasis on continuous assessment rather than a single final exam.
The registration period for KJSEA is scheduled for March 2 to March 31, 2026. This assessment is vital for learners in the junior school cycle as they prepare for senior school. To facilitate this massive transition, the Ministry has set up five “Senior School Hubs” in every county, representing a mix of public, private, and special needs institutions. These hubs are intended to provide localized support for teachers and learners as they navigate the complexities of the new assessment framework.
However, the transition is not without its challenges. KNEC CEO Dr. David Njeng’ere expressed concern over the “late registration culture” that plagued the 2025 cycle, where over 5,700 late requests were received.
For the CBC cohort, timely registration is even more critical because the data forms the basis for school placement and the tracking of individual learner progress through the digital portal. School heads are warned that any delays in the 2026 cycle will be met with swift disciplinary action by the TSC.
