CS Machogu: We’ll need 15 helicopters to ferry exams in case of floods.
The Ministry of Education may require 15 helicopters to conduct national examinations in specific regions of the country in the event of heavy rainfall.
According to a report presented by Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu and Education Committee chairperson Julius Melly, an estimated budget of Sh500 million will be necessary to cover the cost of the helicopters.
The report states that the Kenya National Examination Council is collaborating with a multi-agency coordinating team led by the Office of the Deputy President and the Kenya Defence Force to provide the helicopters and address any additional requirements that may arise.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecasted intense rainfall in various parts of the country, which could potentially affect the administration of the examinations.
The report identifies several flood-prone areas, including Nyakach, Nyando, lower areas of River Nzoia, lower areas of River Sondu, Narok Town, Suswa, Tana River Delta, and Mwatate.
Additionally, it predicts heavy and continuous rainfall in the Lake Victoria Basin Region, Kisii, Elgeyo Marakwet, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, West Pokot, Vihiga, Laikipia, Nakuru, and Narok counties.
Flash floods are expected in Lodwar, Lokichar, Nairobi, Naivasha, Nakuru, and Mombasa, while landslides may occur in West Pokot, Kericho, Elgeyo Marakwet, Mt Elgon, Narok, Nakuru, Baringo, Murang’a, Kitui, and Kilungu in Makueni County.
The report emphasizes that the Ministry of Education, through the Kenya National Examination Council (Knec), is dedicated to delivering high-quality assessments in accordance with its mandate.
It highlights the implementation progress of the Competency-Based Curriculum, including infrastructure development, textbook distribution, and the number of teachers involved.
The registration of candidates for the 2023 KCPE and KCSE examinations took place between February 1 and March 30, 2023, while KPSEA and KILEA candidates were registered from March 3 to April 3, 2023.
This year, a total of 3,604,972 candidates will be sitting for the exams, including 903,260 for KCSE, 1,415,315 for KCPE, 1,282,574 for KPSEA, and 3,823 for KILEA, which caters to learners with special needs.
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