On 20 November 2018, KCPE candidates across Kenya learned their results, and the strongest performers were quickly lifted into the spotlight by parents, teachers and relatives celebrating their scores.
The release of the marks turned into scenes of joy in several schools and homes, with some pupils being carried shoulder-high after posting results that drew praise from those around them. The mood was especially visible among families who had waited through the tension of the national exam period.
Among the pupils highlighted was Delphine Kiprop of Moi Primary School Kabarak, who scored 421 marks. At Kagaki School in Kiamunyi, Nakuru County, parents and teachers carried John Omutelema, who scored 429 marks, alongside Andres Luke, who scored 430 marks.
Other top performers included Emmanuel Njenga of Stepping Stone School in Thika, who scored 445 marks, Leo Rono Koech of Sun and Shield Academy, who scored 437 marks, and Leonard Asanga of Moi Primary School Kabarak, who scored 451 marks.
The anxiety around national exams had already drawn criticism earlier in the process, when education officials, including President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President William Ruto, visited schools during the KCPE period. Some observers said those visits added pressure to children who were already nervous.
Before the results were announced, pupils had also been seen taking photos with Education CS Amina Mohamed, who often wore a cap branded #KCSE2018. But once the KCPE marks were out, the focus shifted from ceremony to performance, and for many families the day became one of relief and celebration.
Kenya National Examinations Council chairman George Magoha said the teachers and pupils had done a commendable job and had “delivered under immense pressure”.
Would you like to get published on Standard Media websites? You can now email us breaking news, story ideas, human interest articles or interesting videos on:
