The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has introduced new guidelines for trainee teachers resitting exams under the old curriculum in 2025.
In a circular dated January 2, 2025, KNEC instructed principals of Diploma Teacher Training Colleges (TTCs) to prepare for these assessments.
Here is a breakdown of the key changes and expectations for institutions and teacher trainees.
What’s New for the 2025 Resits?
KNEC has announced that resit exams will be conducted online through their CBATE e-assessment portal. This shift to a fully digital assessment system requires TTCs to ensure they have reliable ICT infrastructure in place, including stable internet, functional laptops, and well-equipped centers.
These are essential for trainees to complete their Continuous Assessment Tests (CATs) and final exams.
If you’re a teacher trainee, this marks the start of a more technology-driven journey in examination processes.
Which Courses Are Included?
The following courses under the old teacher education curriculum are eligible for the 2025 resits:
- Diploma in Teacher Education (DTE)
- Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE)
- Primary Teacher Education (PTE)
- Teacher Certificate in Adult Education (TCAE)
- Diploma in Special Needs Education (DSNE)
Important: Colleges offering the Diploma in Special Needs Education must have at least ten registered trainees to qualify. Moreover, assessments must be conducted at KNEC-designated e-assessment centers that meet specified technological and infrastructural standards.
Ensure you adhere to the following deadlines for resits in 2025:
- Registration Deadline: January 30, 2025, through one of KNEC’s approved e-assessment centers. This deadline applies to both resit candidates and new curriculum examinees.
- TCAE registration will be managed directly by the Directorate of Adult Education.
KNEC has outlined 25 registration centers across the nation to ease accessibility for all candidates. Some notable centers include:
| Region | Center | Exams Offered |
|---|---|---|
| Coast | Shanzu TTC | ECDE, PTE |
| Nairobi | Thogoto TTC | ECDE, PTE |
| Rift Valley | Nakuru TTC | DTE, ECDE, PTE |
| Western | Kaimosi TTC | ECDE, PTE |
| North Eastern | Garissa TTC | ECDE, PTE |
With the digital transition, KNEC has issued specific laptop requirements that all trainees must meet by February 15, 2025. Your laptop should have:
- Windows 10 (version 22H2 or higher)
- 14-inch screen or larger with a 1920×1080 resolution
- Intel Core i3 (6th generation or higher), 8GB RAM, 256GB storage
- An integrated webcam and a battery lasting at least 3 hours
- Wireless capabilities supporting IEEE 802.11 ac/g/n
These laptops will also be essential for practice, mock tests, and official assessments—so ensure your equipment is in top shape.
Both TTCs and trainees should prepare thoroughly for a seamless transition to e-assessments.
Colleges are tasked with providing uninterrupted internet access and stable power supplies, while trainees must ensure their laptops and technical setups are ready for use.
Additionally, KNEC will facilitate training programs for both educators and candidates. Mock tests will serve as practice tools to help familiarize all parties with the e-assessment platform. Details about the training schedule will be shared soon.
Dr. David Njengere, KNEC’s CEO, emphasized the need for comprehensive preparation, stating: “We urge institutions and teacher trainees to prepare adequately. These reforms are a step towards modernizing Kenya’s teaching profession.”
This transition is more than just a procedural upgrade—it signifies a strategic shift aimed at modernizing Kenya’s teaching sector by leveraging technology to build a more forward-looking workforce.
If you’re a teacher trainee preparing for the 2025 resits, now is the time to act. Familiarize yourself with the e-assessment system, meet laptop specifications, and collaborate with your TTC to avoid last-minute issues.
This change is an opportunity not only to complete your examinations but also to embrace the growing role of technology in education.
