KENAPCO Chairperson Dr. Ekrah Ndungu Urges Inclusive Approach to KCSE Results, Highlights TVET Pathways

The Kenya Private Colleges Association (KENAPCO) Chairperson, Dr. Ekrah Ndungu, has called on the nation to celebrate the achievements of KCSE 2025 candidates while also providing guidance and opportunities for students who did not attain top grades.

In a statement, Dr. Ndungu emphasized that exam results are only one measure of a learner’s abilities and do not capture creativity, resilience, problem-solving skills, or the potential to excel in practical fields. “Candidates who scored below C+ are not failures. An exam is only one lens—it does not measure creativity, resilience, or the ability to solve real-world problems. These learners are now stepping out of class to create the class they will lead in life,” he said.

He highlighted the urgent need to provide structured pathways for students with lower grades, advocating for a shift from rejection to redirection. “Our responsibility is clear: to redirect, not to reject. To dignify every pathway, not to brand anyone as wasted. Every child has a gift. Every child has a future. And when given the right environment, every child can thrive,” Dr. Ndungu said.

Practical Pathways for Students

Dr. Ndungu outlined clear educational and career pathways for learners who scored C, C-, D+, D, and E grades, emphasizing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a practical and respected route:

• C and C- Students

  • Eligible for diploma programs in TVET institutions.

  • Fields include hospitality, ICT, business management, health sciences, and applied sciences.

  • Strong performance can allow students to bridge into university through credit transfers.

• D+ Students

  • Qualify for craft certificate courses in areas such as plumbing, electrical installation, automotive engineering, fashion design, and catering.

  • These programs, typically lasting 1–2 years, equip learners with skills for immediate employment or entrepreneurship.

• D and E Students

  • Can enroll in artisan certificate programs (entry-level technical training).

  • Courses include masonry, carpentry, welding, hairdressing, beauty therapy, and agriculture.

  • With dedication, learners can progress stepwise from Artisan to Craft, then Diploma, and eventually higher education.

Dr. Ndungu noted that these pathways are not just alternatives—they are essential to Kenya’s economy, which urgently requires skilled professionals in technical trades, service industries, creative sectors, and entrepreneurial ventures. “Kenya’s future will not be built by grades alone, but by skills, discipline, and innovation,” he said.

The Role of Private TVET Colleges

Dr. Ndungu highlighted the critical role private TVET colleges play in transforming the nation’s workforce. KENAPCO institutions are committed to:

• Providing structured mentorship and guidance for learners.

• Restoring dignity and recognition to vocational training.

• Ensuring that no learner is left behind regardless of exam results.

“These colleges offer a chance for learners to develop practical skills, gain industry exposure, and build careers that contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.

A Call to Parents, Students, and Policymakers

Dr. Ndungu urged parents and policymakers to embrace the diversity of learning pathways, stressing that every learner has value and potential. He encouraged students who may feel disappointed by their KCSE results to view them as a redirection rather than a failure. “KCSE results are not the end of the story—they are the beginning of diverse journeys. Every learner has a future, and with the right support, every learner can bloom,” he said.

Dr. Ndungu’s statement comes at a critical moment as Kenya seeks to address youth unemployment, skills gaps, and the mismatch between formal education and industry needs. By championing TVET and practical skills, KENAPCO aims to ensure that all learners—regardless of their exam results—have opportunities to thrive and contribute to the nation’s growth.