Kapropita Girls School during Prize Giving Day. Photo/Courtesy
By Daisy Okiring
The Ministry of Education has introduced new rules ahead of the 2025 national examinations, banning prayer sessions and ceremonies involving parents, religious leaders, and external guests for KCPE and KCSE candidates.
Education Cabinet Secretary Dr. Bitok announced that only chaplains and teachers within the school community will be allowed to conduct prayers and worship activities. The ministry said the decision is aimed at ensuring minimal disruption during the exam period and protecting the credibility of the process.
“There shall be no prayer sessions for candidates involving parents, outsiders, or external visitors. However, regular prayer and worship activities conducted by school chaplains and teachers within the school community shall remain unaffected,” Dr. Bitok stated.
Why the Ban Was Introduced
For years, prayer days and thanksgiving events have been a staple in many schools across the country. Parents, guardians, and local clergy often gathered to pray for candidates ahead of their national examinations. However, the ministry has raised concerns that these events have become disruptive, time-consuming, and sometimes overwhelming for learners.
To address this, the government directed that all Annual General Meetings, prize-giving days, thanksgiving ceremonies, and special prayer sessions must now be held only in the First or Second Term of the academic year. By the third term, the ministry says, students should be fully focused on revision and preparation without external distractions.
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Extra Supervision During Exams
In addition to restricting prayer sessions, the Ministry of Education has also suspended annual leave for all education officers during the national examination period. This measure is designed to ensure adequate supervision, smooth logistics, and quick response to any issues that may arise during KCPE and KCSE exams.
According to Dr. Bitok, the reforms are part of broader efforts to eliminate malpractice, safeguard the integrity of national exams, and restore public confidence in Kenya’s education system.
“This is not just about the examinations themselves, but about ensuring fairness, discipline, and an environment where every candidate can perform without undue pressure,” he said.
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Mixed Reactions from Parents and Stakeholders
The directive has drawn mixed reactions. Some parents welcomed it, saying children are often overburdened with ceremonies rather than academic preparation. Others argued that parental prayer sessions helped boost candidates’ morale.
Despite the criticism, the ministry has insisted the measures will remain in place and urged parents to continue supporting candidates from home.
This year’s national exams also carry historic weight, as they mark the final KCPE cohort under the 8-4-4 system, paving the way for full implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). Authorities say the tighter measures will ensure a credible and seamless transition.
With just weeks to go before candidates sit their papers, the government is urging schools and families to prioritize focus, discipline, and mental well-being as the country prepares for one of its most important academic seasons.
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