Critics have, however, accused the new grading system of placing an overemphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects and leaving a large number of students in a pool of D and E grades.Â
Subject-wise, this is how the KCSE 2024 played out: 17 subjects recorded a significantly improved performance. These include Mathematics alternative A and B, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History and Government, Geography and IRE.
Others are Agriculture, Woodwork, Metal Work, Drawing and Design, Aviation Technology, Computer Studies, Kenyan Sign Language and Business Studies.
On the other hand, the CS noted that English, Kiswahili, Biology for the Blind, CRE, Home Science, Building Construction, Electricity, French, German and Music recorded a drop in performance.
Female candidates outperformed males in seven subjects. They included English, Kiswahili, Kenyan Sign Language, French, Home Science, CRE and Art & Design.
Male candidates, however, excelled in 23 subjects, recording a better mean score performance than their female counterparts. The subjects include Mathematics Alternative A & B, Biology & Biology for the Blind, Physics, Chemistry, General Science, History & Government and Geography.
Others are IRE, Woodwork, Metal Work, Building & Construction, Power Mechanics, Electricity, Drawing & Design, Aviation Technology, Agriculture, Computer Studies, German, Arabic, Music and Business Studies.
A photo of students undertaking KCSE exams. /KENYA NEWS AGENCY