Government Urged to Waive Examination Fees for Private Candidates
TSA | March 10, 2025 | Education, Siaya
A non-governmental organization, Pendeza Africa, has called on the government to consider waiving examination fees for private candidates to encourage more adults to enroll in literacy programs.
According to Joan Ochome, Director of Pendeza Africa, the high registration fees required from private candidates have been a significant barrier to adult education. She emphasized that many adults, already burdened with financial responsibilities, struggle to afford the examination costs.
Ochome made these remarks at Pendeza Africa Centre in Kogelo, Siaya, during an evaluation of the organization’s adult education program.
She highlighted the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination as an example, noting that private candidates are required to pay Ksh 7,000 in examination fees.
“Many aspiring learners are unable to raise the necessary amount, forcing them to forgo sitting for the exams,” she stated. With just two years remaining before the phase-out of the 8-4-4 education system, she urged the government to provide a waiver for adult learners.
Ochome also encouraged adults seeking to obtain their KCSE certificates to register with Pendeza Africa, which offers support to help them complete their studies and sit for examinations.
Several beneficiaries of the organization’s programs expressed their gratitude for the assistance they have received, which has helped them transform their lives.
Juliet Akinyi, one of the beneficiaries, shared how the support from Pendeza Africa enabled her to become a professional in her field. She credited the organization’s encouragement and guidance for her success.
The call for an examination fee waiver aligns with efforts to promote lifelong learning and ensure that more adults have access to education, ultimately improving their livelihoods and career opportunities.
Government Urged to Waive Examination Fees for Private Candidates