KNEC Announces Structure and Dates for Grade 9 KJSEA

The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has officially unveiled the schedule and structure for the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA), the final exam for Grade 9 learners under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). This assessment marks a major milestone in Kenya’s educational reforms, providing a clear transition from Junior Secondary School (JSS) to Senior Secondary School.

KJSEA is designed to assess learners’ skills, knowledge, and competencies acquired during their three-year JSS journey. It embodies the CBC’s philosophy of fostering practical skills, creativity, and critical thinking, ensuring learners are well-prepared for advanced education and the challenges of a dynamic global environment.

The examinations are set to run from 27th October to 6th November 2025, coinciding with the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) for Grade 6 learners. This dual scheduling not only streamlines Kenya’s academic calendar but also showcases KNEC’s efforts to ensure efficiency in managing examinations nationwide.

Important Details About KJSEA

Key Dates

• Start Date: 27th October 2025
• End Date: 6th November 2025

This timeline follows a successful pilot conducted from 15th to 19th July 2024, involving current Grade 8 learners in 235 schools across the country. The pilot tested the assessment’s readiness, ensuring that learners, teachers, and examiners are adequately prepared.

Structure of KJSEA

The KJSEA will comprise 11 examinable subjects, each structured to evaluate a learner’s theoretical understanding, practical application, and project-based skills. Below is a detailed breakdown of the subjects and their examination formats.

Examinable Subjects and Paper Structure

1. English (901)
   • Paper 1: Multiple Choice Questions (50 marks)
   • Paper 2:
     • Imaginative Composition (15 marks)
     • Oral Narrative (10 marks)
     • Poetry (5 marks)
     • Novella (10 marks)
     • Play (10 marks)
       Total: 50 marks
2. Kiswahili (902)
   • Paper 1: Lugha (Multiple Choice Questions)
   • Paper 2:
     • Insha (Essay Writing)
     • Fasihi Simulizi (Oral Literature)
     • Novela (Novel Analysis)
     • Tamthilia (Play Analysis)
     • Ushairi (Poetry)
       Total: 50 marks

1. Mathematics (903)
   • Multiple Choice Questions:
     • Topics include Numbers, Algebra, Measurement, Geometry, and Probability.
   • Structured Questions:
     • Emphasis on problem-solving in Numbers (29%) and Geometry using tools like a compass and ruler.
2. Kenya Sign Language (904)
   • Two Papers: Theory and Practical
3. Integrated Science (905)
   • Section A: Multiple Choice (30 marks)
   • Section B: Structured Questions (40 marks)
4. Agriculture and Nutrition (906)
   • Paper 1:
     • Section A: Multiple Choice (30 marks)
     • Section B: Structured Questions (40 marks)
   • Practical Tasks: Aligned with real-life agricultural projects.
5. Social Studies and Life Skills (907)
   • One Paper: Combines theory and practical components.
6. Religious Studies
   • Christian Religious Education (CRE): One Paper
   • Islamic Religious Education (IRE): One Paper
7. Creative Arts and Sports (910)
   • Two Papers: Theory and Practical
8. Pre-Technical Studies (911)
   • Two Papers: Theory and Project

What This Means for Learners and Educators

KJSEA represents a competency-based approach to examinations, balancing theoretical knowledge with practical skills and project-based evaluations. For instance:

• English and Kiswahili focus on comprehension, critical analysis, and creative writing.
• Mathematics and Science emphasize problem-solving and hands-on application.
• Agriculture and Pre-Technical Studies promote innovation through practical projects.

Teachers are encouraged to prepare learners for both theoretical and practical assessments, ensuring they meet the diverse demands of the curriculum.

Conclusion

The Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) is a bold step toward achieving the goals of the Competency-Based Curriculum. As Grade 9 learners prepare for this milestone, KNEC’s structure ensures a comprehensive evaluation of their abilities, equipping them for future challenges.

Stay informed about all updates on KNEC, CBC, and related education news by visiting MwalimuSasa.com.