Basic Education PS Julius Bitok speaks at the Knec headquarters, Mitihani House, during the launch of the Education Assessment Resource Centre (EARC). /HANDOUTThe Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) has unveiled a digital platform for the verification of academic certificates.
Basic Education PS Julius Bitok said the app-based system, which is currently being piloted with the Public Service Commission, aims to fast-track the authentication of certificates and qualifications.
The platform is designed to tackle the widespread issue of forged and altered certificates by providing a simple and reliable method for document verification.
“With this platform, we are saying goodbye to the era of forged certificates. Verification is now fast, secure, and accessible,” Bitok said.
The move comes amid an ongoing crackdown by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) on fake academic documents in the public sector.
Several suspects have already been apprehended, with multiple cases currently before the courts.
On the rollout of the Competency-Based Education (CBE), the PS said the ministry has developed online resources and interactive platforms to support both teachers and parents.
“We have digital programs already in place that teachers and parents can access online to learn more about pathways. I encourage all stakeholders, teachers, parents, and even learners, to take advantage of these programs as soon as today,” he said.
Bitok made the remarks at the KNEC headquarters, Mitihani House, during the launch of the Education Assessment Resource Centre (EARC).
The EARC is expected to strengthen capacity in educational assessment, psychometrics and competency-based evaluation.
It will also offer professional development for educators and examiners while promoting standardisation and best practices in test development and marking.
The PS noted that the Centre—funded by the government and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), among other partners—will also advance research and data-driven assessment.
“The centre is a game changer. It will support teachers, examiners and researchers with skills in psychometrics, data analysis, and assessment practices. It aligns perfectly with our vision for quality and inclusive education,” he added.
Knec CEO David Njengere said the EARC is designed to uphold quality, equity and inclusion in Kenya’s education system.
“This centre will professionalise the assessment landscape in Kenya. It will ensure fairness and credibility in how we measure learning outcomes,” Njengere said.
He further noted that the facility has already admitted its first cohort of teachers and education professionals, who have commenced training.
