Kenya’s law enforcement system is once again in the spotlight, this time through the lens of one of its own.

Dr. Margaret Awino Ong’ale, the first DCI female officer to earn a doctorate degree, has officially launched her new book Transforming the Law Enforcers, a detailed and research-backed examination of how targeted reforms within the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) can improve performance, ethics, and public service delivery.

The book is based on extensive quantitative and qualitative research involving DCI officers, civil society representatives, and community leaders. It explores how reforms in training, personnel management, and the use of modern technology affect the way officers perform their duties.

Dr. Ong’ale’s findings show that while enhanced training significantly improves professional skills, sustainable change depends on fair and transparent personnel policies, strategic deployment of technology, and active engagement with the communities the police serve.

The launch came just days after Dr. Ong’ale graduated with her doctorate, marking a double milestone in her career — achieving the highest academic qualification while unveiling a work she hopes will spark critical conversations and reforms within the DCI and the wider policing community.

Speaking during the launch in Nairobi, Dr. Ong’ale said the book was inspired by both her professional journey and her academic research. Having served within the DCI for years, she witnessed first-hand the difference reforms can make in training standards, leadership approaches, and technological adoption.

She explained that her doctoral work provided the evidence and analysis she needed to present these lessons beyond the academic world, to policymakers, young officers, and the wider public.

This is more than just a book—it is my journey as an officer, a researcher, and a reform advocate,” she said. “I have seen how targeted changes in training, leadership, and technology can reshape the way we fight crime. My hope is that this work inspires integrity, service, and bold action, especially among young officers. I also want it to encourage more women to step forward into leadership roles in law enforcement, in policy, and in research.”

The launch of Transforming the Law Enforcers comes at a critical time for the DCI, which is under pressure to adapt to increasingly complex criminal networks while improving accountability and public trust. Dr. Ong’ale’s research notes that while progress has been made—particularly in specialist training and the introduction of digital investigative tools—there is a risk that these gains could be eroded if underlying management systems remain opaque or if accountability mechanisms fail to meet public expectations.

The book calls for transparent recruitment and promotion processes, continuous professional development for officers at all ranks, improved resource allocation for investigative tools, and stronger frameworks for cooperation between police and the public. Dr. Ong’ale argues that these steps are necessary to create a police service that is responsive, ethical, and trusted by the communities it serves.

While her research focuses on Kenya’s DCI, Dr. Ong’ale believes the lessons in the book have relevance far beyond the country’s borders. She points out that many African countries face similar structural and operational challenges in law enforcement, and that strengthening police institutions at the national level will also improve regional cooperation in tackling crime.

Transforming the Law Enforcers is now available in select bookstores Currently the book is at Nuria stores, Kibanga books, online and can be ordered directly from the author too. With its blend of personal insight, rigorous research, and practical recommendations, the book is expected to become an important resource for law enforcement leaders, policymakers, scholars, and members of the public who care about building a policing system that delivers on its mandate while upholding the highest ethical standards.

She’s currently the Imenti central Criminal investigations officer

This is how the Booklaunching event went down at Weston Hotel . Watch it HERE

Below are her pics during her graduation.

The post Dr. Margaret Awino Ong’ale Launches Groundbreaking Book on Reforming Kenya’s Law Enforcers appeared first on Daily Trends.

Education PS Julius Bitok has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to monetizing students’ creative talents and showcasing their art on the global stage. Speaking at the 97th edition of the Kenya Music Festival (KMF) in Meru, PS Bitok emphasized the importance of elevating the festival’s reach beyond national borders, envisioning a future where Kenyan performers dominate international platforms with their unique blend of creativity and cultural heritage.

“As we approach the 100th year of this festival, I want one of our legacies to be that Kenya is performing and leading globally in master music,” he remarked. “Music is a powerful tool for storytelling and conveying messages that transcend language and cultural barriers.”

This year’s KMF theme, “Enhancing the Creative Economy through Artistic Expression for Sustained Development,” highlights the critical role of music and arts in shaping Kenya’s national identity, fostering innovation, and driving socio-economic growth. PS Bitok reiterated the Ministry of Education’s vision to transform the festival into a sustainable economic engine by monetizing the artistic talents displayed during the event.

“The lifespan of the cream of our talent should outlive the few minutes of stage glory,” he stated. “It should be immortalized in commercially tradeable formats that generate real cash and future royalties.” He revealed plans to engage the Talent Fund and other strategic partners to develop frameworks that will enable young artists to earn from their creativity.

By nurturing and commercializing talent, the festival can create income-generating opportunities for students, teachers, and schools while contributing to Kenya’s broader socio-economic development. PS Bitok encouraged students and teachers to view music and arts education as more than just extracurricular activities.

“We appreciate an important platform for discovering and modeling talents. We see incubation sessions for future local and global stars. We see potential income-generating opportunities and job creation avenues that will be crucial contributors to the socio-economic development we aspire for. Music education, arts, and culture are not mere co-curricular activities but vital components of a well-rounded education that fosters creativity, innovation, and national identity,” he emphasized.

Earlier, KMF Chair Prof. Frederick Ngala echoed Bitok’s vision of global recognition, emphasizing the festival’s evolution into a globally significant event. He highlighted the celebration of diverse African, occidental, oriental, and Arabic cultures as a distinctive strength capable of elevating the festival to the international stage.

“This festival is not just about competition; it is about social learning where students, teachers, and adjudicators learn from one another. Our learners are already winners for making it to the national level,” said Prof. Ngala. He also noted the festival’s role as a practical platform for applying classroom knowledge under the competency-based curriculum while fostering inclusivity by integrating learners with special needs into the competition.

Recognizing the collaborative efforts that make such inclusivity possible, the PS also acknowledged the indispensable role of sponsors in growing the creative industry, calling their support “a testament to the power of partnership and collaboration in achieving excellence.”

“In a special way, I also wish to acknowledge and appreciate the magnanimity of our sponsors, including the Sports Fund, Equity Bank, KICD, Communication Authority, Jubilee Insurance, Kenya Cultural Centre, Brookside East Africa, Kenya Wildlife Service, among others, who have generously made this festival a reality. Together, let us harness the transformative power of music and art to shape our national identity, foster creativity, and drive socio-economic development,” he stated.

Equity Bank, the festival’s main sponsor, supported students performing under the bank’s KMF theme, “Securing Lives Transformed and Wealth Created through Life, Health, and Wealth Insurance.” Schools such as Moi Forces Academy Nairobi, Nzoia Sugar Primary, Holy Cross Primary from Western Kenya, and Mii Primary School will showcase their pieces before President William Ruto at the State Lodge in Sagana.

Winners under the Equity-sponsored insurance theme will receive Ksh100,000, Ksh50,000, and Ksh30,000 for first, second, and third positions, respectively, alongside trophies and certificates.

The festival, featuring over 150,000 participants from preschools, primary schools, junior secondary schools, secondary schools, teacher training colleges, TVET institutions, and universities, is still underway. Events are taking place across Meru School, Meru Teachers College, and Kaaga Girls High School from August 4 to August 12, 2025. Winners’ galas are scheduled for August 13 and 14, culminating in a State Concert at Sagana State Lodge on August 16, 2025.

The post Govt to Monetise Music Festival Pieces, Showcase Students Art Globally appeared first on Daily Trends.

The 97th Kenya National Music Festivals officially kicked off in Meru County, with students showcasing their creativity and cultural heritage. Speaking at the opening ceremony held at Meru School, Governor Isaac Mutuma warmly welcomed participants, emphasizing the festival’s significance in promoting local culture, youth empowerment, and national development.

“It is both an honour and a great privilege for Meru County to host the 2025 edition of the Kenya National Music Festivals, a celebration of rich culture, creativity, and youthful brilliance,” Governor Mutuma declared. “Today, Meru comes alive with the sounds of our national soul, the beat of tradition, the vibrancy of youth, and the spirit of unity. For our young performers, your stage is here. Your time is now. Shine with confidence, sing your truth, dance your heritage, speak your soul.”

Beyond artistic expression, Governor Mutuma highlighted the festival’s critical role in driving economic growth and strengthening national identity. “This festival enhances the creative economy through artistic expression for sustainable development. It speaks to the future of our country. Through music, we nurture unity and shared citizenship,” he noted. “Our oral traditions, folk dances, and ancestral melodies are not museum relics. They are the living heartbeats of who we are. This stage has launched numerous stars. What begins as a school performance often becomes a lifelong career, and that journey begins here.”

Governor Mutuma also emphasised the festival’s broader economic impact, noting the vast ecosystem it supports beyond the stage. He detailed Meru County’s commitment to fostering the creative economy through investments in talent studios, enabling youth to produce, record, and earn a living from their creativity. “These performances are not only entertainment but also education. They provoke thoughts, offer solutions, and awaken a collective responsibility,” he said, pointing to their potential to address issues such as peacebuilding, mental health, climate change, and gender equality.

Elyas Abdi Jillaow, Director General of the Ministry of Education, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the Kenya Music Festival theme, ‘Enhancing the Creative Economy through Artistic Expression for Sustainable Development.’ as a call to cultivate young talent as future content producers and innovators.

“Artistic expression through music, elocution, dance, and drama is not merely for entertainment but a powerful vehicle for innovation, job creation, community building, and national identities,” Jillaow stated.

He further linked the festival to Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which promotes diverse skills and contributes to national unity. “The creative economy is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally. In Kenya, it is time we position our learners to be producers of content, not just consumers; to be job creators, not just job seekers,” he asserted. “Through this festival, we are nurturing the next generation of composers, poets, playwrights, producers, entertainers, and cultural ambassadors. These learners are not just performing; they are building Kenya’s future.”

Equity Group partnered with the 2025 Kenya Music Festivals, providing a significant sponsorship of Ksh 25 million highlighting its commitment to promoting cultural diversity, talent, and creativity. Peter Muturi, Head of Commercial Marketing at Equity Bank, emphasized the bank’s dedication to empowering communities through comprehensive insurance solutions.

“This year’s KMF theme aligns perfectly with Equity’s own theme: ‘Securing Lives Transformed and Wealth Created through Life, Health, and Wealth Insurance,’ reflecting our dedication to securing lives, transforming futures, and fostering sustainable wealth,” Muturi explained. “We firmly believe that investing in creative talent leads to thriving communities and national prosperity. Young artists are future visionaries and change-makers, and Equity Group is proud to champion their growth as part of Kenya’s 80 billion gig economy.”

The festival will feature participants from preschools, primary schools, junior secondary schools, secondary schools, teacher training colleges, TVET institutions, and universities. Events are taking place across Meru School, Meru Teachers College, and Kaaga Girls High School from August 4 to August 12, 2025. Winners’ galas are scheduled for August 13 and 14, culminating in a State Concert at Sagana State Lodge on August 16, 2025.

The post National Music Festival Commences with a Call for Unity, Wealth Creation, and Economic Grow appeared first on Daily Trends.

It’s the last week of April Holiday. The kids are rushing to finalize their homework and arrange school bags in readiness for the new term.  As a parent, you are scrolling your calendar in disbelief, school starts next week. And let’s not even talk about the school supply list the school sent you, did the pencils and the rubbers go missing again over the holiday?

You’re somewhere between excitement that the kids are going back to school and full-blown panic of where to get cash for all that’s required. As the back-to-school hustle intensifies, one thing is clear: parents everywhere are feeling the strain. From school fees to buying supplies, the costs add up quickly. What every parent needs right now is a financial partner, someone who can provide handy, adaptable solutions to assist them deal with these stresses while saving time and keeping them focused.

Digital loans are the ultimate solution for quick, reliable funds, without the hassle. Eazzy Loan is designed to help cover back-to-school expenses, whether it’s paying fees or shopping for supplies. Access funds instantly by dialing *247*6#, using the Equity Mobile App, or Equitel, with no paperwork or branch visits required. You can borrow up to Kshs. 3 million to meet your back-to-school needs.

And if you find yourself short when making payments using Equity *247#, the app, or Equitel, simply accept the Boostika prompt to top up your funds. Simple, fast, and secure.

When it comes to paying school fees, digital payment solutions such as Equity Online provide a seamless and convenient way to settle payments directly to the school’s account in real-time. This service is available on both laptops and mobile devices, allowing you to monitor your payments and ensure everything is settled on time. Simply enter the school’s account number, followed by the student’s name and admission number in the remarks field. You can also download a payment summary for sending to the bursar or school treasurer and for easy reconciliation with the school.

For back-to-school shopping, Pay with Equity offers a convenient, zero-charge solution. Look for the One Equity Till Number sign or ask the merchant if they accept payments via Pay with Equity when shopping. Payments can be made via *247#, the Equity Mobile App, or Equitel, and you can also use your Equity Visa, Mastercard, or Amex cards for FREE. Every shilling counts. Look out for shopping discounts and where you can save a shilling here and there.

To safeguard your child’s pocket money and ensure they can manage their spending with ease, equip them with an Equity Prepaid Card. The card is easily available at any Equity branch and is issued instantly. This secure card ensures your child’s funds are safe from theft or misplacement, giving you peace of mind while allowing your child the freedom to manage their purchases.

The post Ease the Back-to-School Rush: How Equity’s Digital Solutions Are Helping Parents Manage Costs and Stress appeared first on Daily Trends.

Parents and students are being cautioned against enrolling in degree and postgraduate programs offered by 15 institutions that have been highlighted by the Commission for University Education (CUE) for lacking accreditation.

The government magazine MyGov published a notification on Tuesday, March 11, stating that these institutions are functioning illegally and that Kenya will not recognize their degrees.

The commission claims that the schools and universities that have been marked are not authorized to offer degree programs or work with other recognized institutions since they are not operating with a grant of authority.

Students who attend these colleges run the danger of having their credentials rejected by employers and other educational institutions, the CUE said. According to the notification, “any organization functioning as a university or degree-granting organization that is not listed among the Commission’s approved institutions is unlawful, and their degree credentials will not be accepted in Kenya.”

The flagged institutions are:

1. Grace Life Bible College – Vihiga
2. Africa Theological Seminary – Kitale
3. Regions Beyond Ministry Bible College – Thika
4. Baraton College – Kapsabet
5. The Africa Talent University – Kisumu
6. Breakthrough Bible College – Nairobi
7. Theophilus Theological College – Kiambu
8. Northwestern Christian University – Kakamega
9. Logos University – Kakamega
10. Harvest Land University – Kisumu
11. Word of Faith Bible College – Vihiga
12. Kenya Anglican University-Kanyuambora – Embu
13. The East African University Bradgate International University – Nyeri
14. Eldoret Bible College – Uasin Gishu
15. Al-Munawwarah College – Mombasa

The post List of Institutions Offering Unaccredited Degrees & Postgraduate Diplomas appeared first on Daily Trends.

The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) has opened the portal for the KCSE 2023 cohort to select their programs and institutions of higher learning.

While this presents an exciting opportunity for students, some have encountered technical difficulties during the application process.

To address these challenges, KUCCPS has extended the application period to February 26, 2024, and in this guide, Daily Trends will walk you through a step-by-step process to ensure a seamless application experience, especially when dealing with payment references.

Navigating the KUCCPS Student Portal

1. Start by visiting the KUCCPS website and search for ‘KUCCPS Students Portal’ on your preferred search engine.
2. Click on ‘Student Login’ and enter your KCSE Index Number, exam year, and password (birth certificate number or KCPE Index number). If issues persist, contact KUCCPS for assistance.

Selecting KUCCPS Programs

3. After logging in, go to the ‘Programme lists’ tab to access documents for various programs, including degrees, diplomas, certificates, and artisan programs.
4. Choose your desired program, and download the associated PDF file containing information such as available programs, program codes, and previous cut-off points.

KUCCPS Application Process

5. Return to the portal, click on ‘Application/Revision,’ and fill in the codes for the chosen courses. The system will indicate whether you meet the minimum requirements.
6. Click ‘Submit’ and follow the payment instructions in the pop-up box.

KUCCPS Payment Instructions

7. Click on “Click HERE to make payment” to obtain the account number needed for payment via the 222222 paybill number on eCitizen.
8. Access your MPESA menu, select Lipa na MPESA, choose paybill, enter 222222 as the paybill number, and input the account number provided by the portal (e.g., GHMNYZ).
9. Complete the payment, but remember, when asked for the payment reference during the application, use the same account number you used for payment (e.g., GHMNYZ). Don’t use the MPESA reference code.

Confirmation of Application

10. After entering the correct details, a pop-up message will confirm the successful application.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you can navigate the KUCCPS application process smoothly, minimizing the risk of encountering errors and ensuring a successful application for your desired programs.

The post Step-by-Step Guide to Smoothly Navigate the KUCCPS University and College Placement Application Process Without Errors appeared first on Daily Trends.

In the realm of academic achievements, there are stories that stand out as extraordinary, breaking conventional norms and showcasing the indomitable spirit of perseverance.

One such story is that of Ochieng Clinton, a tenacious individual whose academic journey is nothing short of inspiring.

The Initial Aspiration

Ochieng’s dream of pursuing medicine was not an overnight decision.

Back in 2016, he sat for the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) and scored a commendable B+.

Despite his zeal for medicine, his cluster points did not align with the requirements for the coveted course.

A Detour into Public Health

Undeterred by the setback, Ochieng embraced an alternative path.

He accepted an offer to study public health at the university, showcasing his resilience and adaptability.

Not only did he complete his degree, but he also graduated with first-class honors in 2021. This accomplishment demonstrated Ochieng’s commitment to excellence, even in the face of unexpected turns.

Returning to High School

With his first-class degree in hand, Ochieng made a bold decision—to return to high school.

In a rare move, he enrolled in Form 3 at Magwar Model Secondary School in Kisumu County. His aim was clear: to improve his cluster points and pursue his lifelong dream of studying medicine.

Second Attempt at KCSE

The year 2023 marked a significant chapter in Ochieng’s academic journey as he sat for the KCSE once again as he faced the examination with a fresh perspective.

A Triumph Straight A’s Unveiled

In the results that were released by Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu on January 8, 2024, Ochieng Clinton emerged as one of the top scorers.

He achieved the remarkable feat of straight A’s in five of the subjects he was tested, with two A-‘s and a B plain in one subject.

Ochieng scored a B (plain) in English, A- (minus) in Kiswahili, A (plain) in Mathematics, A (plain) in Biology, A- (minus) in Physics, A (plain) in Chemistry, A (plain) in Geography, and A (plain) in Business Studies.

His brother Steve Otieno took to his X account to celebrate the results.

This outstanding accomplishment not only reflected his academic prowess but also underscored the transformative power of unwavering determination.

Fulfilling the Dream

With his newfound success, Ochieng is now poised to embark on the journey he had envisioned from the beginning—studying medicine.

The hurdles and detours along the way have only strengthened his resolve, turning his dream into a triumph against all odds.

His journey serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring individuals navigating the complex landscape of academic pursuits.

As Ochieng takes the next step towards realizing his dream of studying medicine, he leaves an indelible mark, inspiring others to persevere and embrace the extraordinary possibilities that lie within their reach.

The post From First Class Graduate to 2023 KCSE Top Scorer: Remarkable Journey of Candidate Who Rejoined High School After University appeared first on Daily Trends.

Over 1,000 students scored straight As in the recently released 2023 KCSE exam results.

This is according to an announcement by Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, who released the results on Monday, January 8, 2024, at Moi Girls High School in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.

Machogu indicated that 1,216 candidates, representing 0.14 per cent, got straight As in 2023 compared to 1,146 in 2022.

Broken down, a total of 7,254 got A- (minus), 18,078 attained B+ (plus), 36,728 got B (plain) while 78,343 got C+ (plus).

A total of 92, 612 candidates got C (plain), 107,471 C-(minus), 125, 006 D+ (plus), 155, 276 D (plain), 165, 861 D-, and 48, 174 E.

In total, 201,133 candidates, representing 22.27 per cent, scored C+ and above and will be eligible for direct access to the university. The improvement in performance was attributed to the new grading system. 

825 male students achieved As compared to 391 female counterparts while 4,472 male students got A- (minus) compared to 2,782 female students.

A total of 903,260 students sat last year’s KCSE exams, an increase from 881,416 candidates who took the exams in 2022.

Of the 899,453 candidates who sat the 2023 KCSE Examination, 450,554 were male, while 448,899 were female, representing 50.09% and 49.91% of the total candidature respectively. 

Parents, candidates and teachers had problems accessing the results on the KNEC portal, which had earlier on crashed.

The technical issues on the portal have since been solved, and here is a step by step guide on how to access the 2023 KCSE exam results.

The post Overall National Grade Summary for 2023 KCSE Exam Results appeared first on Daily Trends.

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu has officially announced the 2023 KCSE exam results.

Unlike the previous years, parents and candidates will have to check the results through an online portal.

While announcing the results in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County this morning, CS Machogu said the results can be accessed through the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) portal.

“Individual 2023 KCSE candidates’ examination results will be accessed online through a link on the KNEC website or directly through the URL: https://results.knec.ac.ke. The results will be immediately available after this exercise,” CS Machogu said.

KNEC through their official social media accounts posted a step by step guide on how the 2023 KCSE exam results can be accessed.

First, open a search engine of your choice (such as google, Mozilla Firefox, Opera etc) on your mobile phone or computer then key in the url https://results.knec.ac.ke.

After accessing the portal, enter the candidate’s index number and name as per the 2023 KCSE registration data, then submit the information.

The 2023 KCSE results of the particular candidate will display on the screen.

The post Step by Step Guide on How to Access 2023 KCSE Results appeared first on Daily Trends.

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu is set to release the 2023 KCSE Exam Results today, Monday January 8, 2024.

The CS is expected to brief President William Ruto this morning before he releases the results from Moi Girls High School in Eldoret.

The brief will focus on the exam preparations, administration, conduct, marking and moderation of the tests.

According to sources, the meeting was scheduled to start at 7:30am.

Ministry officials are already in Eldoret.

This will be the second time the ministry of Education will be releasing the results away from the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) headquarters in Nairobi.

Last year, Machogu had indicated that the 2023 KCSE exam results would be released in the second week of January 2024.

The post CS Machogu to Release 2023 KCSE Exam Results Today appeared first on Daily Trends.

Education CS Ezekiel Machogu has announced new timeline for the release of the KCSE 2023 exam results.

Machogu has said the much awaited results will be announced in the second week of January, 2024.

The CS on Thursday December 28 said compilation, verification and validation of scores is currently ongoing.

The ministry of Education has been under pressure to release the 2023 KCSE exam results.

The KCSE exam marking started on November 27th and ended on December 13th, 2023.

The marking exercise was initially scheduled to conclude on December 11, 2023, but was extended by two additional days, disrupting the planned release date for the results between December 16th and 22nd.

The Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) urged CS Machogu over the weekend to grant examiners more time to compile and award KCSE applicants the grades they deserve.

Aggrey Namisi, National Vice Chairperson KNUT, told the press in Bungoma on Saturday that the KCPE results were hurried, resulting in inaccuracies.

Because of technical difficulties encountered during the transmission of the KCPE results, the KCSE results will not be available via Short Messaging Service (SMS).

The 2023 KCSE results will be available via the Kenya Education Management Information System (KEMIS) portal.

To obtain the results, parents and candidates will go to the website and enter the KCSE names and index numbers.

A total of 903,260 candidates sat for the 2023 KCSE exam.

The post CS Machogu Announces New Date For Release of KCSE 2023 Exam Results appeared first on Daily Trends.

ODM leader Raila Odinga’s staunch supporter Nuru Okanga has finally broken his silence on his 2023 KCPE results.

Soon after Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu announced the last KCPE results, screenshots started doing rounds on social media, indicating that Nuru Okanga had scored 401 marks.

However, the Bunge la Mwananchi member has distanced himself from the said screenshot.

Nuru Okanga became the number one trending topic across almost all social media platforms after the fake results estimated that he got between 401 and 405 marks placing him among the top 20 students nationally.

Nuru Okanga sat for the 2023 KCPE examinations at Mumias Muslim Primary School.

Okanga has, however, disclosed that he has not yet received his results after sending his index number to to 40054.

In a phone interview with Daily Trends, the index number 37610677055 doing rounds did not belong to him as his starts with the figures 379.

He said he will disclose his marks once he receives the sms.

The top candidate in the 2023 KCPE scored 428 marks out of a possible 500.

Only 8,525 candidates were able to score 400 marks and above with 352,782 students scoring between 300 and 399 marks. 

The post 401 Marks Sio Yangu! Nuru Okanga Finally Breaks Silence On His Real KCPE Results appeared first on Daily Trends.

The 2023 Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exams top candidate scored 428 marks out of a possible 500. 

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu announced the results on Thursday November 23, 2023.

This last KCPE exam as the Ministry of Education phases out the 8-4-4 curriculum to be fully replaced by a Competence Based Curriculum (CBC).

Out of the over 1.4 million candidates that sat for the exam, only 8,525 candidates were able to score 400 marks and above with 352,782 students scoring between 300 and 399 marks. 

The majority of pupils scored between 200 to 299 with 658,278 candidates falling into that category. 

383,025 candidates scored between 100 to 199 marks with the rest of the candidates scoring below 100 marks. 

The national examination had minimum malpractice with only two pupils out of 1.4 million candidates engaging in exam irregularity. 

The post How Candidates Performed in 2023 KCPE Exams appeared first on Daily Trends.

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu has broken his silence after yet another student lost his testicle after he was assaulted by his teachers in a school in Kisii County.

A 19-year-old form four student at Nyabisia Secondary School, in Nyamache division, Bobasi constituency has stirred a debate after he narrated how teachers at the school brutalized him.

According to the student, five teachers and a school security guard brutalized him and damaged one of his testicles which doctors at Hema Hospital in Kisii said had raptured.

The students testicle raptured following the beating he received. It was removed at the hospital.

CS Machogu while commenting on the incident said the law should take its course.

Machogu termed the perpetrators as criminals and not teachers, who should be taken to court and dismissed from the service.

The CS said teachers are not allowed to go to that extent while administering discipline.

“To me, these are just criminals and I cannot even call them teachers. The law should take its course. They should be taken to court and dismissed from service,” Machogu was quoted by Nation as having said.

This is the second incident involving rogue teachers beating up and leading to a student losing his testis, after minor offences committed by the learners. A week ago, another student suffered the same fate after vicious beatings by his teachers.

The post CS Machogu Breaks Silence As Another Student Is Brutalized By Teachers In Kisii, Loses Testicle appeared first on Daily Trends.

Mount Kenya University (MKU) has prided itself as one of the fastest growing institutions of its kind in the 2000s.

Over the period of its existence many cases have emerged, some going all the way to the court, with accusations of the founder of the university for poor land handling and in some cases, obvious land fraud allegations.

But frequent invitations to the mention of the name of its founder Simon Gicharu allows one to interrogate the nature and type of the explosive rise of the university.

Gicharu, a close ally to the Kenya state operatives has been a great beneficiary of State appointments, serving in leading parastatals in the country including the multi-billion shilling Geothermal Development Corporation, a clear reward for his reward towards former President Uhuru regime since 2013.

At the same time, the Ministry of Education capitation for private universities saw thousands of students get State capitation with MKU among the biggest beneficiaries of the programme.

“We are working on the figures and monies that MKU received and soon, we shall make it public. The figures are high and I can assure you that some of you will be shocked,” says a member of the National Assembly Education Committee.

On the other hand, the country’s legal fraternity is still apprehensive of the university’s School of Law at the speed it acquired the charter to offer Law ahead of some of the established public universities.

“MKU has a few things to reply to in this country. The millions they received and the nature of the scandals they have weathered in the recent past has many people thinking about the operations. We cannot rule out the closeness to power that the owner enjoys in many places in our country. All that will be known when the matter is put to discussion,” the MP in the Education Committee says.

Investigations by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) looking into the allegations of fraud in an inflated Sh1.2 billion campus purchase deal between MMUST and Mount Kenya University (MKU) has been set rolling.

The commission had commenced investigations into the matter following a complaint that MMUST had purchased the MKU Turkana Campus at an exorbitant price of Sh1.2 billion yet the property was valued at Sh600 million.

Investigations established that the acquisition was initiated through a letter dated March 17, 2016, by the Deputy Vice Chancellor of MMUST, Planning, Research and Innovation to the Cabinet Secretary of Education Science and Technology.

Investigations by the EACC established by the Commission of University of Education (CUE) approved the acquisition stating that it had already accredited the campus. The MMUST University Council also deliberated and approved the acquisition on June 17, 2017.

On July 28, 2022, a report was compiled by the EACC team and forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) with a recommendation for closure of the inquiry file. The report further held that the VC (Prof Otieno) who would have been culpable for failing to adhere to the procurement law and regulations is deceased.

Prof Otieno left office on December 1, 2018, amid a barrage of audit queries. He died in 2019.

Step Up Holdings

Similarly, in its expansion strategy, MKU in a deal sewed up by Simon Gicharu has been embroiled in a land tussle with a firm Step Up Holdings that according to court documents, claim they were shortchanged.

Apparently, MKU through Gicharu, allegedly entered into an agreement with Step Up in 2011 to set up a Nakuru campus mini wing in Kericho town but the owner didn’t measure up leading to a court battle in a supposed Sh511M botched deal between the two entities. Step Up ran the operations of the Nakuru Campus before the clash. This was a gentleman’s deal between the two entrepreneurs meaning it was all verbal.

Step Up Holdings avers that a month after their verbal agreement, the university forced the firm to close the Kericho Campus leading to a loss of Sh953,881.

The firm claims the university then “illegally took over” the campus by relocating 3,807 students and 295 staff to other premises. The court sided with Step Up Holdings and found the university liable for Sh511 million.

In 2012, the Court of Appeal in Nakuru dismissed appeal attempt by MKU dismissing the appellants’ application for stay of proceedings pending Arbitration.

“The background to the appeal is that, both the appellant and the respondent entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) containing an arbitration clause,” Court records show.

However, Nakuru High Court judge Justice Hillary Chemitei allowed the university to file defence Sh511million dispute.

“The interlocutory judgement entered against the applicant or defendant on November 17, 2011, is hereby set aside,” ruled Justice Hilary Chemitei.

“The applicant shall within 30 days from the date herein deposit Sh511million in a joint interest-earning account in the names of both counsel for the applicant and the defendant pending the hearing and determination of the suit,” stated Justice Chetimei.

The court also ordered Step Up Holdings to provide a Sh511million bank guarantee from a reputable firm within 30 days pending the hearing of the case.

Provisions of the MoU cited by the university in its flopped attempt to push for arbitration were dismissed by the Court of Appeal.

Mount Kenya University has found itself once again on the receiving end after entering into a scandalous land deal with an alleged fraudulent businessman leading up to a court battle.

In what was thought to be a smooth deal to acquire a piece of land in Nairobi’s Industrial Area, the institution’s owner Simon Gicharu has once again fallen prey.

The institution dragged a controversial British national Vallabh Haribhai Bakrania to court for allegedly defrauding them of Sh20 million.

Bakrania is accused of obtaining the money by pretending he was in a position to sell to the university a piece of land located in Industrial Area, Nairobi.

Bakrania allegedly committed the offence on 27th November 2020 in Nairobi, with intent to defraud Mount Kenya University.

The post REVEALED: How “Corrupt” Simon Gicharu’s Political Power Has Spearheaded Growth of MKU appeared first on Daily Trends.

Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu has given a new directive to all the leaners transiting to grade 7 under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

Machogu has said that the learners should have new uniforms for junior secondary category.

He urged school management to pick colors and types of uniforms for their schools.

He however, said parents will cater for the uniforms.

“The Grade 7 learners will have different uniforms, which the heads of schools will come up with and parents will cater for,” the  CS said. 

The Junior Secondary students will report on January 30. 

Machogu said 14,000 public schools have been assessed and more than 13,000 met the qualification of the Junior Secondary school host.

Junior Secondary students will report on January 30. 

Machogu said 14,000 public schools have been assessed and more than 13,000 met the qualification of the Junior Secondary school host.

The Education CS spoke on Monday during the Form 1 selection exercise at KICD, Nairobi.

On December 1, 2022 the CBC task force recommended that Junior Secondary learners be domiciled in existing primary schools.

The post Education CS Ezekiel Machogu Gives New Directive to Learners Transiting to Junior Secondary appeared first on Daily Trends.

The National government through the Ministry of Education has announced a new date for the re-opening of schools.

Education CS George Magoha through a press statenment on Saturday directed schools to resume on Thursday, August 18, 2022.

The disruptions on school opening day is due to the ongoing election process where the tallying of the election results is still going on.

In his statement, Magoha clarified that students will no longer be required to report to school on Monday, as earlier communicated.

He had earlier announced that schools will be re-opened Monday, August 15, 2022.

Magoha said the ministry has been informed that the process of tallying ballots may still be ongoing on the aforementioned date.

The CS apologized for any inconvenience caused and said his communication supersedes any communication made earlier on basic education institutions.

Schools are traditionally used as polling and tallying centres every election year.

A gazette notice by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission indicated that almost 250 schools will be used as tallying centres.

The post Government Announces New School Re-opening Date appeared first on Daily Trends.

Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati has today unveiled the 7000 beneficiaries of governor’s scholarship 5^th cohort 2022.

At an event that was conducted at Masinde Muliro grounds Webuye, Wangamati said that the county officials participated in visiting the beneficiaries’ homes to make sure that the scholarship is awarded to the most deserving students in the county who are bright and genuinely needy.

In his speech Wangamati said that the county government had initially targeted 3000 students but following the good performance from the needy students, they decided to increase the number to 7000 so as to enable bright but needy students to get their education equally like other children.

He went ahead to note that the program was initiated in 2017 and the pioneering class sat for their examinations in 2022, which 500 students who were beneficiaries sat for their exams and so far, the results received are from 281 students all with good grades.

One Tatiana Wabwire from South Bukusu ward Kimatuni village who scored an A after benefitting from the scholarship 2017 and heading to Pangani girls high school expressed her joy saying that coming from a struggling family, she didn’t know how the fate of her education would be until the program came by.

“I have been raised by partly my grandfather and my single mother after my dad died in 2013 and it was really hard for me through my primary school education and I didn’t know if at some point I will be standing here with these grades, thanks to governor Wangamati’s scholarship that saw me through my high school education,” said Tatiana

Wangamati went ahead to warn his competitors to stop politicizing everything saying that his scholarship is only for the needy students and not the rich as alleged by his competitors.

“You people send me in the office as the second governor, to go and work and as you can see, I have delivered and I have the receipts for that unlike my competitors, so I want them to come with the receipts not empty talks,” he said

The post Governor Wangamati Unveils 7000 Beneficiaries Of The 5th Cohort Of His Scholarship Program appeared first on Daily Trends.

Crown youth group (CYG), a community-based Organization operating in Bungoma County has launched distribution of sanitary towels exercise in Bungoma schools to improve menstrual hygiene.

Speaking to the to the press in Webuye West Constituency during the distribution of sanitary towels at Milani Secondary school, Samuel Nakitare, Chairman Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child health (RMNCH) said that the move came as a result of high number of teenage pregnancies in schools in Bungoma.

This increased school drop- outs especially during Covid-19 lockdowns.

Crown youth group is a CBO that works under Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child health to ensure that there is increased Antenatal care visits, reduce teenage pregnancy and strengthen weak referral systems in health facilities.

“Bungoma is among the counties that have recorded a high number of teenage pregnancy and our move aims at distributing sanitary towels and educating young girls the importance of menstrual hygiene,” Nakitare said.

The health advocate revealed that the organization held talks with health providers in Bungoma County before taking the initiative of distributing sanitary towels in schools.

“I held discussions with health providers in almost all health facilities to check how pregnant women are attending Antenatal care visits (ANC) that helped me organize this for sanitary towels distribution,” he said.

He urged expectant mothers to visit health facilities for Antennal Care (ANC).

Nakitare assured that the organization will move around the entire county to distribute sanitary towels in Bungoma schools, adding that the organization disbursed 14 boxes of sanitary towels at Milani secondary school.

He also said that Milani Secondary school has so far recorded 10 teenage pregnancies.

Nakitare lauded the government through the ministry of education for distributing sanitary towels in schools.

Kennedy Wanyela, the school principal noted that girls who got pregnant while in school are getting guidance from health providers and will be supported to access education.

The post CBO Starts Distribution Of Sanitary Towels In Bungoma Schools appeared first on Daily Trends.