The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has introduced a new avenue for students whose national exam results have been cancelled, offering them the opportunity to appeal the decision.

This initiative is outlined in the Kenya National Examinations Council (Amendment) Bill, 2024, formulated by the Presidential Working Party on Education Reforms.

According to the Bill, students aggrieved by exam cancellations will have a 30-day window after results are published to submit an appeal to the Council.

"A candidate whose examination results have been cancelled may apply to the Council within thirty days after the release of the results for a review of the Council's decision," reads a section of the Bill.

Previously, students had to resort to the judicial system for recourse, but under the new provisions, KNEC will accept written appeals directly from affected candidates. Applicants must clearly state the reasons for seeking a review.

Upon receiving an appeal, KNEC will review the application and respond in writing within thirty days, informing the applicant of the outcome and reasons for any rejection.

Successful applicants will receive written confirmation of the decision, and KNEC may require them to appear before the council within 90 days.

The Bill proposes that if KNEC finds no evidence of exam irregularities, the results will be reinstated for the candidate.

Currently undergoing public participation, the Bill will subsequently be presented to Parliament for deliberation. This new appeals process aims to ensure fairness and transparency in handling exam-related issues, providing students with a mechanism to seek redress for cancelled results.