This archive report was first published on 4 December 2019.
December 4, 2019, marked a significant moment for many students in Kenya as the Form One admissions were announced. However, for those who did not perform well in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exam, the news was not as celebratory.
John Kageche, in an article published on Business Daily Africa, reminds us that failing an exam is not the end of the world. In fact, it's an opportunity to learn and grow. 'Education was meant for empowerment, never examination,' Kageche writes.
He goes on to say, 'You are literate. You can read, write, add and subtract. You can be taught a new skill, and you can always redo KCPE if you feel you had an off day during the exam.' Kageche's words are a reminder that there is always a way forward, even when things seem bleak.
He shares the story of Kimani Maruge, a Kenyan who holds the world record for being the oldest student. Maruge went to Class One at the age of 84, and his story is a testament to the fact that it's never too late to learn and grow.
So, to all those who feel like they've failed, Kageche's message is clear: 'Being called a failure doesn’t make you one. Just as being called rich, doesn’t make you so.' He encourages us to reframe our thinking and focus on the positive. 'If you choose to repeat, it is OK. Trust me. Your peers are not ‘leaving’ you. In life that year difference won’t mater. Ask any adult you admire.'
