The first day of the 2024 KCSE theory exams has brought various challenges, including both new births and tragic losses among candidates.
In Tigania West, Meru County, a male candidate passed away on Sunday, just hours before the start of the national exams. Meru County Commissioner Jacob Ouma confirmed the death but did not provide details about the cause. "We are saddened to have lost a student from the Tigania West area," Ouma stated, offering his condolences.
Meanwhile, the exams have also highlighted the issue of teenage pregnancies. Four candidates took their first papers—English and Chemistry—in maternity wards. Two of these candidates were in Meru County, taking their exams at Meru County Teaching and Referral Hospital. In Nakuru, another candidate went into labor just two hours before the exams and is currently in Nakuru County Teaching and Referral Hospital. Job Kaikai, Sub-County Education Director for Nakuru East, confirmed the situation, saying, "There is a candidate who will be doing their exams at the county hospital as they are set to deliver."
Additionally, at Kericho County Referral Hospital, a candidate from Laliat Secondary School in Ainamoi Constituency gave birth to a healthy baby early in the morning. Joel Tonui, the Nursing Manager at Kericho County Teaching and Referral Hospital, reported, "She gave birth at 3 AM; an emergency procedure was done, and she will be here for 3-4 days as we monitor her."
In Meru County, 151 adults and 12 prisoners also participated in the national exams.
