Murkomen to KCSE students: Low scores are not end of road

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has reassured students who underperformed in the 2025 KCSE that a low score is not the end of the road, urging them to stay focused, disciplined, and determined to achieve success.

Murkomen emphasised that the results of the national exams are only a stepping stone in life. 

"For those who think they did not do very well, this is not the end of life; it is just the beginning. What matters most is how you approach the next phase of your life. Discipline and focus will determine your success more than marks,” he said.

He encouraged students to analyse their performance critically, learn from their mistakes, and prepare for the opportunities ahead. 

In a message following the release of the results, Murkomen noted that while high marks are celebrated, they do not guarantee success, just as lower marks do not signal failure. 

“The determination of success in life will depend on your attitude and discipline. No matter what marks you got, you can turn this experience into an opportunity to grow and excel,” he said.

Highlighting the options available for students, Murkomen encouraged them to consider technical and vocational education. 

With the government’s ongoing investments in infrastructure, including housing, water, and road projects, he said there are ample opportunities for young people to acquire practical skills and thrive in technical fields. 

“Even if you did not perform well in class, technical institutions provide a way to develop skills that are in demand and can lead to meaningful careers,” he explained.

Murkomen also spoke to students’ mental and emotional well-being, acknowledging the pressures faced by young people today. 

“Many young people struggle with mental health issues, especially when they feel they have failed. It is important to handle disappointments with grace, remain hopeful, and focus on your goals,” he said.

He further warned against alcohol and drug abuse, stressing that these are among the biggest challenges facing Kenya’s youth. 

“Please do not let alcohol or drugs derail your future. The government, under President William Ruto, is committed to tackling this issue, and each one of you has a role to play in staying productive and focused,” Murkomen said.

He also congratulated all students for completing their secondary education. 

He praised those who performed well but reminded them that success in life depends not only on exam scores but also on persistence, discipline, and a positive mindset.

“Whether you scored an A or lower marks, you have the potential to succeed. The opportunities in this country are many, through technical training, business, or further education,” he said.

Murkomen’s message comes as the government prepares to open more avenues for youth empowerment and skills development, ensuring that every young person has a chance to contribute to national growth. 

He urged students to remain committed, work hard, and focus on building a meaningful future, reiterating that KCSE results mark the beginning of a new chapter, not the end of the journey.

A staggering 359,144 candidates scored grades D, D– and E in the 2025 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations, whose results were released on Friday.

Speaking Friday during the release ceremony held at AIC Chebisaas Boys’ High School in Uasin Gishu County, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said a total of 993,226 candidates sat the 2025 KCSE examination.

Ogamba said that overall, 634,082 candidates, or 63.67 per cent of the total candidature, attained the pass grade of D+ and above.

According to the statistics, 268,783 candidates obtained a mean grade of C+, 236,416 obtained a mean grade of C–, while 126,951 attained a mean grade of D+.

This left a balance of 359,144 candidates who obtained mean grades of D, D– or E.

Some 1,932 candidates scored grade A.