The era of the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exam is quietly ending, marking a significant shift in Kenya's education system. The 2025 KCSE cohort will be among the last under the old 8-4-4 system as Kenya transitions to Competency-Based Education (CBE).

• Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba confirmed the phasing out of KCSE, emphasizing a move from rote memorization to skill demonstration.
• Only 0.19 percent of candidates scored an A in 2025, while over 634,000 students attained a pass grade of D+ and above.
• The new system, as explained by KNEC Chief Executive Officer David Njengere, will incorporate projects, practicals, and continuous evaluation, moving away from a "one-exam-decides-everything" culture.
• This reform aims to nurture every learner's potential, allowing for transitions to universities, TVET institutions, or skills-based careers.